We all want to be pampered and treated like kings and queens, especially on our vacation. Paying for it however, is another fairy tale story. On your next vacation, use these upgrade tips for being upgraded and getting more luxury for less.

Flights

We get it, booking a first-class seat is not cheap. If you want luxury for less on a flight, you’ll have to score an upgrade. These days, that’s not the easiest thing to do. And while your chances are slimmer, there are a few things you can do to increase your odds.

• Dress Presentably and Ask Nicely – In a world where ticket agents deal with cranky passengers, a well-dressed and courteous request is likely to be taken seriously. Timing is everything here too. Showing up last minute and asking for an upgrade doesn’t respect the agent’s time.
• Be loyal – While it pays to shop around, it also pays in flying with the same airline. High miles and points travelers are more likely to score upgrades. Alternatively, you can turn those miles into an upgrade.
• Get Bumped – This is not a tactic to use if you have somewhere to be. However, if a flight is overbooked, you could offer to give up your seat for a better one on the next flight.

Hotels

Want a room with a view? Many of the same tactics from airlines apply to hotel upgrades. Here, a travel agent can upgrade you even at time of booking. Travel agents are often members of larger partnerships with hotels that often offer exclusive deals just to travel agencies. These partnerships often included amenities such as a free upgrade. Ask your travel agent what they recommend.

Asking at check in doesn’t hurt either. If the hotel has availability, you may be in luck.

Hotels have loyalty programs too. Sign up to start earning points and status. Often, higher status will earn you upgrades. Again, when you ask they may be able to upgrade you.

Use Miles

Be it airline miles or points from credit cards, put them to use with upgrades. You don’t have to have an airline specific credit card or even one that specific to travel. Often some of the perks of your credit card are deals and offers with hotels and car rentals.

Use a Travel Agent

We’ve said this in the tips above, but with any travel arrangement, using a travel agent can score you better placement, upgrades and perks. Travel agents watch your reservation, on airlines, hotels and cruise ships, and if a better offer comes around, it’s easier for them to upgrade it. They also have relationships with hotels that increase the odds of obtaining an upgrade.

What are your tips for being upgraded?

Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).