Lifestyle | How to Get a Free Upgrade to Business Class When Flying

Those who travel frequently in the line of business know that flying ‘coach’ is the least desirable way to go, especially if you will be flying great distances. For short journeys just across the Channel, it’s no problem, but when flying to far-off destinations like Singapore, it really helps to get the conveniences offered when flying business class. So, is there a way to get an upgrade for free? Actually, according to statistics, one in five people have been able to upgrade without an additional cost.

Why Would I Want to Upgrade?

If you are not one to travel often, you may not be aware of all those little ‘extras’ that come with upgrading to business class. If you are going short trips, perhaps the main reason you would want to upgrade is because of the way in which you can access the lounge. Afraid of flying? This is the way to go! However, you also get better menus, easier check-ins and sometimes you can even get a plane with seats that recline almost flat so that you can sleep on longer trips. Okay, that’s why you’d want to upgrade, now here’s a few suggestions how.

Are Frequent Flyer Miles Really Free?

One of the most common suggestions made by airlines and frequent flyers alike is to use those frequent flyer miles for a ‘free’ upgrade. But, are they really and truly free? If you have spent a good bit of money travelling often, they probably don’t feel like they’re free. Here, it is probably wise to use them when you are going on long trips rather than a short trip to Paris, for example. Why waste them when you could really use them on your next trip to the Asia-Pacific region?

Look the Part of a Business Professional

Some business professionals dress for comfort but if you really want to impress the ticketing agent, dress the part! For men, a nice trendy suit might do the trick and for women, a classy business outfit would work well. Also, fashionable luggage that is of high quality will work quite nicely. Why not carry on a Briggs & Riley Verb Propel Case that rolls for convenience and is styled in black, well suited to a professional appeal? If black doesn’t do anything for you, perhaps a Rimowa Pilot Silver 53cm would be a better choice. Both are high end cases and sure to give you that professional look you are after.
From dressing the part to using those frequent flyer miles, there are ways to upgrade for free to business class if it’s those amenities you are after. Sometimes just looking the part is enough and friendly ticketing agents have been known to ‘offer’ an upgrade for free based on appearances. Maybe someone was in your seat or you made some kind of justified complaint. No matter how you go about it, one thing is for sure. Flying business class is so much more comfortable than coach – especially if it is a free upgrade.

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