Sometimes it’s worth it to take a plane ride sitting in business class. Sipping champagne, being treated like royalty, and having that extra legroom make all the difference, especially on long-haul flights. But for most of us, we’re smushed back in economy determining who gets the middle seat armrests.
Business flights can be pricey, sometimes costing 4 times as much as economy class tickets. but what if I told you that there are ways to get a free upgrade to business class?
This article will cover the differences between economy and business class, instances where business class is a must-have, and how to get upgraded to business class on your flight.
How to get upgraded to business class
- Understanding the differences between economy and business class
- Use credit card points to get an upgrade to business class
- Avoid popular flight times to get upgraded to business class
- Get an upgrade to business class for special occasions
- Take advantage of overbooking to get an upgrade to business class
- Use auction services to bid on business class tickets
- Get an upgrade to business class through communication
- Subscribe to airlines’ newsletters to get business class offers
- Book the right fare and get lucky
Economy class versus business class – Understanding the differences
When I think of economy class, the first thing that comes to mind is cheap. Economy class flights, also known as coach, mean that you’re sitting in the main cabin, seats are smaller, you’re bumping elbows with the rest of the passengers, and in-flight services are limited.
Meals aren’t always offered anymore, and you’ll have to pay for food and/or drink. So, it would definitely be great to learn how to get free upgrades on flights.
Domestic flights typically have smaller seat sizes compared to international flights. Still, it’s important to note that economy class may offer backseat screens for entertainment and headphones to listen to music and/or movies and TV shows. Some flights may even offer in-flight Wi-Fi for a fee.
Business class is a step up from economy, and just before the first class, so you would expect prices to reflect this.
Domestic business flights are typically a bit nicer than economy class, but for international flights, the difference can be much more significant. Fancy laying down and sleeping 30,000 feet above sea level travelling at 800km/hr? Well, international flights often feature business class seats that recline to a flatbed, or at an angle.
Business class can also vary depending on the airline. Before deciding between two airlines, if the price is similar, it may be a good idea to check out what those business class seats look like for those flights before you make a purchase. Don’t forget the dedicated airport lounges where you can get all-you-can-eat food and drinks before your trip.
Some airlines even offer a pick-up and drop-off service to and from the airport if you live close enough. Overall, business class has gotten so good on flights that airlines have started ditching first class.
READ MORE: The best international airlines in the world
How to get upgraded to business class for free?
Upgrade to business class with the right credit cards
Your money should be earning frequent flyer miles for you. There are tons of excellent travel reward credit cards out there that can be redeemed, this is one of our best tips on how to get free upgrades on flights. With the right amount of points, you can even get free flights and hotels.
You can strategize and pick the right credit card to get the best deals. Hotels.com and Capital One Venture offer 10 times points of all hotel expenses, and Chase Sapphire offers excellent signup bonuses, as well as 15,000 point invite specials.
How to get free upgrades on flights – Avoid popular flight times
By taking advantage of off-peak bookings such as flights that take off before dawn, or on days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays, you’ll have a better chance of a free upgrade to business class as the competition with business travellers is low as they are less likely to fly on those days and during those time slots. Steer clear of early morning and late afternoon flights.
READ MORE: When is the best time to book a flight?
How to upgrade to business class – Special occasion flights
I know some people who like to keep their birthday a secret, but it can actually get you a free upgrade to business class if you let the check-in staff know.
Also, whether it’s your honeymoon or wedding anniversary, you can use this to your advantage and get a free flight upgrade to business class, for two!
How to ask for an upgrade on a flight – Late check-ins
Airlines still face overbooking, making them more likely to offer free upgrades to business class. You can ask the check-in counter if the flight is full, and you can even check online for some flights with websites like ExpertFlyer to see if your flight is overbooked. Attempt to check in late, and you’ll most likely be able to snag some deals.
READ MORE: Should you check in online for your flight?
How to upgrade to business class – Let the bidding begin!
There are now auction services such as Optiontown and Plusgrade which have partnered with airlines so passengers can bid for a business upgrade. If you don’t mind paying a little extra give bidding a shot.
Almost all airlines have an established bid minimum of about USD $100 to $150. A suggestion is for travellers to bid 20% to 40% of the difference between the economy class and business class tickets to stand a better chance. You may get lucky!
Upgrade to business class – Communication is key
Because most airlines want to keep a good reputation, if you’re having a rough trip, security was a hassle, or you’re experiencing poor service, share this and attempt to get some sympathy points with the right person. They may just give you a free business class upgrade.
READ MORE: What happens if you miss your flight?
How to get upgraded to business class – Hit subscribe and get those airline newsletters
If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll surely be notified of special promos and any upgrade to business class. Make sure to check your inbox and keep an eye out for flight upgrades so you can plan your trip.
How to get free upgrades on flights – Book a flexible fare or premium economy seat
Typically, if you’re booking super saver or best deal tickets, you’ll be out of luck when it comes to scoring a free business class upgrade. Usually, passengers that get upgrades are those who are airline members or frequent flyers who have booked flexible fare or premium economy seats.
READ MORE: What is the difference between economy and premium economy?
Sit back, relax and enjoy your upgrade to business class
They say once you get a taste of business class, you’ll never want to go back to the economy. Business class does have a significant upgrade to the standard economy class that makes it harder to go back to.
And even though it’s normally more expensive, now that you’ve got an idea of what you can do to try and get free upgrades, give it a shot! You never know where you might end up.
