Twice we were moved to first class. One I was standing in front of a pilot getting coffee and he ended up being our pilot, I bought his coffee. After the doors were closed he came looking for me and said he had two in first class and took us to them. Second time was after a fight was cancelled and everyone had to stand in line to rebook. Naturally everyone was mad and took it out on the people at the desk. When it was my turn they asked how they could help. Well first I would like for you to take a deep breath and relax. I'm sorry everyone is treating you so bad it's not your fault and you shouldn't be treated like this. The lady who was working next to the person taking care of me reached over and handed me the tickets. I thought she made a mistake but she smiled and said no, enjoy your flight. Just be nice it's not hard and there is such a thing as good karma
Is excellent advice especially in Irregular Operations situations. Wasn’t an upgrade, but a good friend was on his was on his way from Amersterdam to meet me when AMS (not even just KLM but basically the whole airport) was in meltdown. The security queue was kilometers long (literally) and he had shown up about four hours before the flight. Had SkyTeam elite status (but they erroneously charged him for his bag - that got refunded later down the line) so was even using the Sky Priority lines. Still waiting just to get through security, he calculates that there is no way he will get to the gate in time, so heads back to check-in desks to talk about rebooking. First agent tells him there’s not a flight for two days and the change fee is more than his original flight cost… he’s less experienced flying than I am, and he was writing gutted that we’d miss celebrating birthdays together (we were meeting because we have birthdays two days apart) and he could miss a really good music festival he’d paid a lot of money for. So he was really gutted about an airport problem that was not his fault, and to a great extent also not KLM’s fault since it was the airport that was in a state of meltdown just after COVID restrictions and been lifted and there was almost zero staffing for high-summer demand. Anyway to finish a long story shortly, he finds another agent in the check-in or possibly ticketing area (thinking he may need to buy a new ticket, and that happens in another place). He explains in a nice, calmed-down way (he had been quite tense already), Listen, I really like your country, I like KLM from past travels, I know this isn’t your fault, but look at this. Trash is piled in the airport, there are queues that can take four hours to wait in (he had been in one). This is unrecognizable and now I may miss several days and important events as a result. He made this all very calmly, and he also has a way of turning on charm when necessary. The agent says, “Yes, I know. I’m sorry. What can I do for you?” He says he just wants to get to Stockholm, or even anywhere with a train or ferry to Stockholm. She taps away, seconds later hands him a boarding card for the next flight to Stockholm. Now, I’m sure that seat was probably from someone who had also missed a connection or a flight owing to the chaos, but I’ve no doubt his demeanor and rational explanation that he knew the airport was the issue, not her, not even the airline, made her look a little harder and get him onto the flight. When things go wrong, calm down, be nice, express empathy that the person in front of you is not the person who made this problem, and genuinely seek their help. They usually will if they can, and break a few “rules” if they need to when it comes to changes, repricing, etc.
While on my way to Spain, I got an upgrade to a First Class Seat as a result of a high school trip to Spain. The airline overbooked the flight, and offered $400.00 voucher and booking on the next flight. I accepted and got off the plane. When I got to the desk for my voucher, (Last in line), they told me there had one seat left on the plane. Figuring that was my kind of luck, I grabbed my bag and followed the attendant. When we entered the plane, she turned left and I followed to a wonderful 7.5 hour flight to Spain. What a deal for me.
I once wore my military uniform just to get free checked bags. And once plane was in the air, I was offered a seat in first class. Thank you for my service.
I used 15k miles to book a one way economy ticket from SFO to HNL on United. Every day I would check out on the app how much it would cost to upgrade to first class and most times it would be over a thousand dollars. However getting closer to the flight, I saw the price drop to 399 but it was a middle first class seat. I purchased it and then on the day of the flight, they switched the type of plane and now I’m sitting by the window on a Polaris flight without having to pay extra. Score!!!
One time my wife and I were upgraded to business from San Francisco to London Heathrow by taking a flight a day later, as they were overbooked. Was the best flight ever. Another time flying from London back to SF, we were supposed to fly through Chicago where there was a massive storm, so lots of folks on standby. We agreed to take a flight a day later, and they gave us $700 each (paid for our flights the next time), a free 4* hotel for the night in London, and a flight that went direct to SF
Nice. Which airline ? I had a flight delay for a day and to spent a night on highway motel. It was Lufthansa. Motel was ok, but I wish it was in the city, so I can get some meal or something.
Yep….that happens if you offer your seat when the flight is overbooked. The only thing they probably didn’t tell you is that you are a standby passenger on the next flight so if it is overbooked again, you might have to wait it out another day. If the flight leaves in the morning not too bad of a situation however if it leaves at night, by noon you have to leave the hotel and wait 8-10 hours at the airport not knowing you will get on or not. The denied boarding compensation will equal to double the one way price of the flight the person was bumped from up to $775. If no one had volunteered, the airline would have had to pick someone and then given them 400% of the one way fare up to $1350 to put the passenger on a subsequent flight over 2 hours later than the orignal departure. This said, they can offer more money if the want to.
I work as a flight attendant for a major airline. For us, if the agent doesn’t upgrade you, it’s most likely not going to happen. However, there have been rare times I’ve upgraded people in order to sort out seating issues. We can be fired for just upgrading people.
I think unless for really short trips, asking say a solo traveler to move to a less desirable spot in the same type cabin so say a couple or family can be together is a bit...if they are upgrading the solo traveler up a class or offer some service exchange then I think maybe fair game...those solo book or choose those seats in advance for a reason but for emergency cases I can understand...or at least add some mile points for good karma??
Really? Getting fired? How often have I seen Flight Attendants talking to friends on board on a red eye and as people got ready to sleep and the lights were turned down, these friends were moved to first class. Come on…it happens way too often. Next time someone reading this is on a red eye flight, look at what happens once the lights go down.
@@Flownthecoup23 I love the way carinep.4520 generalizes and offers information that h/s has no experience in or can justify. Just pissed off h/s didn't get that upgrade, so complains and lies about it. I was in customer service for 40 years. So glad I am retired. :)
On a trip from London to San Francisco, I had asked for an upgrade when checking in (1999). I was shown my seat and was sitting in it when a young boy came along and advised me I was sitting in his seat! I asked him to find a flight attendant, which he did, and she came along and asked me to follow her. I was shown to the first class cabin and had a wonderful flight. I did not have to pay any upgrade fee.
Also had a similar incident! Having flown to the Philippines to attend a loved one's funeral wasn't exactly a trip was looking forward to, so it bummed me out when on my flight back home (Manila to Dubai leg of the flight via Emirates), there was a man sitting on the seat I booked online. We checked our boarding passes, and true enough, we have the same seat number. I immediately informed an FA about the situation and after a few minutes, she came back and asked me to come along - and, voilà, she led me to my "new" seat in business class! It was a treat! At that moment, I thought to myself, " Thanks, Dad, for the nice goodbye gift!"
So many people are flying now days that unless you are a high status frequent flier you aint getting upgraded period. If you are an infrequent flier, even if you are in their frequent flier program, trust and believe there is someone higher than you who will get that seat. This has not always been the case but planes are so full now there just arent empty seats in business/first. We fly often and only on United ever. In June we flew nonstop from SFO to Rome FCO. The outbound flight was 100% full. The return was full in Polaris (united's business/first class) but not that full in coach and i heard a flight attendant telling someone they could spread out. My husband is 1K million miler and he hasnt been upgraded on an international flight in years.
The days of free upgrades on long over. Too many people would get economy hoping for a upgrade. They now will fly with first class empty before giving them away.
I was in Italy for work in 2019. Prior to my departure, I received several emails to upgrade from premium economy to Business. I did not take the original offers, as the airline was asking for $3.6K. The day before departure, they dropped the price to $800. Well worth for a 9+ hour flight. It was probably the best flight I’ve had. I landed feeling refreshed, not to mention the pampering while in that class seating
Good to know! I have flown biz class - and I love it! I've become so spoiled. I like everything about the biz class experience: priority check-in, priority security, priority bag (although, I can think of only once where my bag was amongst the first out), lounge access, priority boarding, elevated food and drink...I almost feel like a star.
A strange thing happened to me a couple of years ago. I worked for the US Government, but was on a personal trip from Washington, DC to Manila, Philippines on Emirates Airlines (a favorite of mine). It was my FIRST fight with Emirates. I flew from Wash, DC to Dubai, UAE --a long flight in Economy. I checked into the gate for my connecting Flight. There was a table set up outside the waiting area with a woman holding a portable radio. She took my Passport and my Boarding Pass, and told me to have a seat in the waiting area, someone would return my papers. Eventually, 98% of the passengers were already on the plane and I had no ticket, boarding pass or passport and was about to panic. So I asked an official where my papers were, and they gave them back to me and told me to board the plane, but the Ticket was for First Class from Dubai to Manila, another long flight. It was a great flight! Is that rare that airlines upgrade to First Class on an International Flight for a first-time customer flying with that airline?
I got a free upgrade, Vancouver to Rejkavik because at the last minute they changed my Edm-Rejkavik flight left from Vancouver. So they flew me to Van. and put me first class for the long flight.
I was bumped up to first class once because my armrest was broken. But the BEST story was a guy I knew back in the days when the Concorde was still flying. He was scheduled for a regular transatlantic flight on a regular plane, but they kept cancelling one flight and putting him on another and then cancelling that, and telling him he could leave for a while and then suddenly calling him telling him instead to hurry back, etc. etc., and they had (unintentionally) jerked him around so much that they took pity on him and upgraded him to the Concorde for no extra charge!! So he got from NYC to London in 3 hours.
wow sir you go way back to the Concorde days, only been on when it was a 'museum' now is in some desert graveyard I think...but can't wait till Concorde 2.0 or Airlander type replacements (the 3 hours is like the kid with the super CPU back in the days when others still loading to install their game)
@@s4lino The best part of the flight was when the captain announced he was turning on the afterburners. Already flying at about 600mph, you got pushed back in your seat! An incredible plane.
I don't know about the whole "chocolates for the attendants" being cringy. From what I've read, they usually really appreciate it, and I've done it on two flights before and the attendants were very happy at the thoughtful gesture. I wasn't doing it to try and score an upgrade or anything. I was just doing it to help show my appreciation for everything they do for us passengers. I wouldn't do gift cards because those are too variable - i wouldn't know how many attendants are on my fight, where they'd want a gift card to, etc. I wouldn't want to get them a fast food gift card and then find out that they don't really eat at McDonalds or wherever. Prepackaged, individually wrapped Chocolates are usually a safe choice because most people enjoy them, they're sharable amongst the entire crew, and they're affordable for the passenger to give. I gave Lindt truffles last time in a factory sealed bag just so the attendant could have confidence that they hadn't been tampered with. Again, they were incredibly appreciative.
I got a upgraded to Polaris business class last year on a United FRA-DEN flight. I booked my journey in premium economy & redeemed miles for upgrade waitlist on the outbound Durango CO. My connection to Denver had upgrade confirned but not for the leg to Frankfurt. As for return flight, I recieved the good news from United just as boarding commenced so I was able to switch to group 1 line!
I was in Atlanta and the plane was so late I was booked on another airline. I missed the flight and finally found customer service for that airline. I told them I missed the flight and could they help. The young lady checked and said she couldn't help. I told her that I would be homeless in Atlanta if I couldn't a ticket. She looked again and handed me a couple of tickets. She acted like I had done her an extreme injustice. While I didn't get an upgrade. I had standby tickets that got me home. I guess it it was an upgrade from being homeless.
Interesting ideas but I am one to just book the flight and pick my seat which is economy or economy plus. I feel fine and happy just to be flying and looking out a window. It is the vacation spot where I prefer to spend the little extra money on things. It is just me I suppose.! Love all you do for us Megan and Ollie is such a cutie.
I recently flew on American using miles and found that taking flights at odd times or adding one stop significantly reduced the miles required. A direct from Mexico City to NY on Business/First was almost 100,000 miles. By flying to Dallas and grabbing a flight one hour later, it went down to 30,000 miles. I found it was also very comfortable to divide the long flight into two shorter segments and, in both Mexico City and Dallas, I had access to the Admiral’s Club.
I've only flown short-haul as an adult, and with budget airlines, but if I end up travelling more than I have done so far, I'll certainly keep these tips in mind. (And it honestly can't hurt to dress nicely, who wants to be the one scruff amongst the business class passengers?!)
I always fly solo and with only carry-on, and sometimes I can be flexible with my time. I've never thought to offer to take a different flight when they invariably find they've sold too many seats. Thanks for the tip!
I chose premium economy for my flight from Newark to London and back. I also always bring the flight attendants and crew chocolates of some sort as a token appreciation, lol not for an upgrade! I feel like they have the worst job so a little something to brighten their day is worth a few bucks!
I have brought the flight attendants and ticket agents chocolate and candies on more than one occasion. They have made sure to keep an eye out for me. We have gotten better seats in our same class and extras when flying.
Thanks Megan for the tips. I’m on my second of at least 3 consecutive round trips from the west coast to Bangkok on Philippines Airlines, starting next Monday with a flight from KC to the west coast, a 4 hour layover, then a flight to Manila, a 4 hour layover, and a flight to Bangkok. Then, a 10 hour layover and a taxi ride from the airport to the train station and a 13 hour ride to Chiang Mai; my final destination where I’ll be at for 29 days. I fly PAL because I can buy round trip tickets for $600. I can use points on Southwest Airlines to get from my hometown to the west coast, and my train ticket costs $23. I have 2 checked bags at nearly 23 kilos, a carryon at 7 kilos and a small backpack of varying weight. I wear a hoodie, so I can stuff 1=2 lithium batteries in each pocket. I give myself plenty of time between legs of flights because PAL is notorious for being late and occasionally for cancelling flights. I’m taking the train because of the baggage that I have. The one thing that I promise not to do while waiting for my PAL flight on the west coast is not to offer to watch someone’s bags on a seat next to mine. Not because I’m afraid of being arrested over it. I just don’t care to spend hours replying to people here that feel like I’m taking a big chance in watching someone’s belongings. I said all that I care to say about the subject on another of Megan’s videos. Besides, I’ll be in CM seeing how many days in a tow I can eat Khao Soi.
I prefer to book my travel early in the day, mostly for the potential impact of weather delays. But by planning early flights, I can accommodate getting bumped off an oversold flight and leveraging that bump to upgraded seating or extra miles/points for the loyalty program. Also if I’m traveling solo I feel I have greater flexibility than if traveling with family. Just from too much travel, I got seating upgrades several times per year with US Airways, but not so much since they merged with American.
The very first time I ever flew I was upgraded, without my asking, to first class. It was for both flights from Michigan to California. I didn't know how nice first class was as I had nothing to which to compare it. Since then I've flown Economy, and the last couple of times, Delta's Comfort Plus. I really think the Comfort Plus is a worthwhile upgrade.
You always have the best content, Megan! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! My next trip is to Croatia going down to Albania in November! It should be fun! I have also booked Peru and Machu Picchu in May 2025! Peru is on my bucket list and that will take me to 20 foreign countries visited! It is great to get out of the US craziness for a bit of time! Safe travels!!
I was flying to Sydney from NYC once. First leg had a layover in Manilla. I had a premium eco seat at the bulkhead but the pop out tv screen didn't want to come out so was upgraded to Business right after the flight took off. Was great on a 12+ hour flight. :)
recently flew with etihad from europe to malaysia, truly best economy experience I had. seat were really comfy and had most legroom. food selection and service also the best. would fly again.
@@PortableProfessional It was not my only time in First Class (before or since) but it was by far the best. Instead of lie-flat seats, the upper deck of the 747 had actual beds you could use after dinner/whenever in the main FC cabin. .
Thanks for your video! Some years ago, I fly from Chile to England for a workshop-meeting at Cambridge University. On the way out, I find out at London Heathrow in the line-up that the assigned AA LHR-DFW flight has been cancelled. Not a pretty scene: hundreds of pax inconvenienced, and a "little" annoyed, especially with potential transatlantic flights to alternate cities with tight or poor connections to pax' intended destinations. After about 20-minutes in the line-up with extra contemplation and quick calls to me mates, I calmly and gently say to the AA agents (a) I don't have to fly out today, especially because I still have the international DFW-SCL and domestic SCL-LSC connections which I'm never going to make; and (b) would it be possible to route me in the "opposite" direction into continental Europe (re. Frankfurt, Germany), and I can do the massive reverse trip in a few days' time? This had the immediate benefit of getting this passenger "out of their hair" for the time being, and move "my problem" for a later date. The agent spoke to their supervisor, and within about 15 minutes, I was booked LHR-FRA that day, and my return (FRA-LHR) LHR-DFW, DFW-SCL, SCL-LSC was set in 3 days' time. If memory serves, I did ask and I might have in fact received an upgrade to business-class on one of the two international legs on return. I did have 1 piece of checked luggage, but in this case, it was not a big deal. Meanwhile, because I used to live in Germany, I decided to go "home" to Heidelberg and hang out with friends for a couple of days; Frankfurt to Heidelberg is a relatively easy journey on the train.
Our business used to have trade exchange with several airlines, this was many years ago. What I would give (money excluded) to travel first class now that I am in my 80's. 😊
I was upgraded twice, once to First Class & once to Business Class for free, without asking for it. The First Class upgrade happened because my partner was in Business Class & I was in Economy. We wanted to sit together & there wasn't another Business Class seat available so we were both moved to First Class. The Business Class upgrade happened because there was a large group of Far East travelers causing a hold up at check in. I waited patiently. Because I was patient, I was moved to Business Class; went to the private dining room; and was let on to the plane first. Of course, you have to dress for the part. And I love dressing up. ☺
I've been upgraded from business class to first class between Vienna and Tokyo a couple of times. The folks I was working for booked us in business class for any trip over a certain length, and I got really spoiled.
Hello and thank you for all the great info, Megan. I've been watching your channel for about the past year and have learned quite a bit. However, I must take exception with your comment about chocolates and dressing nicely being 'cringe'. My wife and I have flown about a dozen times on Delta and Alaska Airlines over the past two years and as we step onto the plane I'll give the first flight attendant we see a small package of chocolates (something nice such as Ghirardelli), and say "it's for you and the rest of the flight crew". I have a cousin who was a flight attendant for years so I know how tough their job is, well, second-hand knowledge anyway. We're not looking for anything from the flight crew, but the response has been a sincere 'thank you' in every case. There have been a few times where a different flight attendant came over to us mid-flight and asked if we were the ones who brought the candy - and then thanked us again. All the best.
Actually, the flight crew cannot eat any passenger gifts like the chocolates you’re talking about. They have to be very vigilant about unscrupulous people with nefarious intentions. She may have thanked you for the kind gesture, but your chocolates were probably trashed.
Aww, what a shame. Being nice to the attendants is always a good idea, tho. Even if they don’t remember you, they’ll appreciate the kindness & feel a bit less taken-for-granted. Nobody likes that.
I've done that plenty of times and sometimes get free food and drinks or the FAs "forget" to charge me anything I've purchased inflight. The trick is to make sure to hand the gifts to the flight attendant working in your section, which you can easily notice by where they're standing during boarding, so if you're flying economy, don't give the treats to FAs at the door. Walk further down the aisle and give the treats to the FA standing closer to your seat, so when they start the food and beverage service you're likely to see that FA again and they will be VERY nice to you. I've been upgraded to Business once after doing that, but that flight was almost empty, so they had a lot of leeway to move passengers around.
I’m travelling with my daughter next month, 2-hour flight, & have booked the aisle & window seats. If the middle one goes, one of us may swap. We’ll see.
I fly business now for any flight over 4 hrs. Under that I do whatever may be "fancy economy"😂 the other day I was flying Delta with 2 pieces of checked luggage. By the time you add in my luggage fees I was $30 away for business upgrade which the bags would then be free. So I did that.
Years ago I flew alot.What I'd always do when I checked in at the gate would ask if the flight was overbooked.Much of the time it was so I'd volunteer to be bumped and get on the next flight an hour or two later. This worked 4or5 times and I"d get money or a free flight in the future and sometimes an upgrade.
On two flights, one to Hawaii the other to the UK we received an upgrade from economy to the upper deck on a 747. One flight we were sent back to check a bag and upon return, we were ushered upstairs. Who's going to argue with that?
I always purchase the Al Mahal Services on Qatar Air especially since my surgeries. I never thought about getting upgrades on my seats or class and might give it a try next time I go to the Philippines. Qatar Air biz class and Premium Economy are some of the best in theworld and I'd be delighted to experience them.
I fly United in and out of Denver. I cannot tell you the last flight I was on either in or out where they did not start by saying they were expecting a full flight. I have checked available seats a couple of days before my flight and there are at best maybe 3 or 4 available seats on the entire plane, usually in economy. I don't know about any of you, but my happy backside will never see an opportunity for an upgrade once I buy my ticket.
We started flying first class especially when travelling to Hawai'i. The lay down bed seating on Hawaiian airlines and the service is fantastic. I agree that Air Canada is nothing special. Not a fan of them but for me to go back to see family they are my only option for most of the year.
Best upgrade I had was an upgrade to Concorde. Snow had hit America and I was trying to get back to London from Minneapolis. My flight to Chicago to catch my BA flight was delayed and I missed my flght. I blagged a free seat to NY, then asked BA for an upgrade to Concorde so I could get back to London in time for a meeting. After much persuasion they agreed. A few weeks later, on the same route home, but my last one, I was upgraded to first class from Chicago to London. As a parting gift on my last day on the Mineapolis contract I was given a huge teddy bear for my new born son. The BA staff said the teddy needed a seat and upgraded me to 1st so there was a 'buddy' seat for the teddy. They also gave me a bottle of Krug when I expained the teddy was for my son. The days when BA were the world's favourite airline.
One important thing I would suggest people figure out is how much points are worth in equivalent cash. So for example, with Southwest, it may be (and this depends on how the points were accrued) it may be that one point is equal to say 1 or 2 cents. If you can figure out the average of what one point gets you for your ariline of choice you can make informed decisions as to whether some deals are worth it or not (such as upgrades with points). There may be times (I found at least once or twice) where using points to pay for an upgrade didn't really pay out in the end as it cost more points than it would have, dollars, for a particular upgrade, like moving from Economy to a premium economy class (larger seat, and power port for example) on some airlines. The highest class I've flown is business. On one trip, itwas from Chicago to Switzerland so that paid out nice. It actually worked out in my favor and I actually did not have to pay for the upgrade. An error in the ticketing process from the airline caused me to get a free upgrade (after a stressful boarding process that is). But this was a seat that would have cost me about $1,000 more at the time (I think my economy ticket was $600 round trip). Of course the upgrade was only for one way, so I had to fly economy on the way back, but for a 7 hour flight, business was great. I will generally fly economy, unless it is a longer (possibly "red-eye") flight and someone else is paying. Taking a later flight is a little hack I've used here and there. For example, if I'm returning from a trip (business trip) an dI have a travel day (basically a whole day assigned for traveling) I'll usually fly out early in the morning. This has paid off because I have opted to take a later flight when these opportunities arise and collect some flight vouchers which I generally will then use for personal travel like vacations, and since I have a full travel day where I don't have to report for work because I'm traveling, this allows me that flexibility. Worse case is that I just get home in the morning sometime (late morning usually if it's a 6am flight for example) and I don't get offered any vouchers for taking a later flight. But so far, it has paid for some trips in some cases (although I haven't gotten that much in the way of vouchers over time, maybe enough for 4 or 6 free flights so far). But for the last part, the malfunctioning entertainment system, had this happen on the flight back from Switzerland, and they offered a 50% credit (so it would have been about $300 if I remember correctly as the free upgrade didn't count towards this calculation) in travel credit, which would have paid for half of another flight to Switzerland around the same time of year, but i never took advantage of this and the voucher expired something like 12 months after issue (they had to do this for all passengers as the entertainment system failed on the plane in general, so nobody could use it; but this is a good reason to bring your own tablet with movies or music or a book to read).
I flew first class from Vancouver to Las Vegas years ago. I was asking a question at the gate. They gave me the info and then asked if I'd like to upgrade to first class for $40. I was like umm of course yes lol. Then another guy also upgraded. He didn't tell his friends though. As they boarded and walked past him they were all calling him a bastard haha.
Thank you, Megan! When it comes to choosing a better airline - that works only if other airlines are available with schedules that you can work with. American is the only airline serving my closest airport. You’ve provided some very cool tips in this video, though.
Dear Portable Professional do you have any ideas for someone who is going to make his 1st International Travel to Israel? Oh, Have you been to Israel? Yep I have traveled the U.S. extensively and to Canada and Mexico for mostly Business in the U.S. and for some travel for pleasure. At 66 years old travel now is for pleasure and I like traveling with Delta Air because they have the best 1st Class and the best/new planes ✈️ (if you ask me).
I got upgraded on BA from LHR to JFK once to business class, it was nice but I'd have preferred it on the JFK to LHR leg so I could sleep. I simply said to a gate agent at checking in on TAP jn LIS that I've never been in first class. She put me in first class from LIS into Terceira in the Azores. It was only a 2 hour flight but nice and pre-9/11. Maybe someday my financial picture will allow me the opportunity to do this on the regular but for now I'll power through in economy but will always ask if I can upgrade for a small amount of $$.
This by no means guarantees an upgrade but what it can generally do is make any dealings with airport peeps go much smoother, and help with an unasked for upgrade. And really everywhere out in the world Dress sharp. Comfortable but sharp. Slacks, dress shoes, button down shirt, tie and jacket if you want. It's really a fun social experiment to try if u dress comfortable, ie; like a slob. Dress well when u go out. There is a marked difference in how we are treated simply by our dress.
I've flown First between two UAE states. No sooner was champagne given than it was ..... cleared away for landing. Darn it! Very helpful video, which I'll watch again.
Great tips, especially the Seat Guru one although you are “rolling the dice” on that one. I’ve been upgraded only once, it was a long time ago and, honestly, I don’t remember why. I’m traveling to Italy in September, will certainly keep these tips in mind! Thanks for a great video Megan 🤗 Oh, enjoyed having your ‘sidekick’ make an appearance!
Did not realize that seat upgrade bidding was a thing all these years. Wow, I have been flying in basic mode all this time. Your video is enlightening!
United has a system where you can pay points plus some cash for a business class upgrade, even from a discounted economy ticket. The trouble is, the upgrade isn't guaranteed and they keep your points and cash even if you don't get the upgrade. I've done this several times flying from US to Australia (the upgrade is SO worth it for that long trans-Pacific flight) and it used to be that I'd get notified of the upgrade several days before the flight. But the last flight I did in 2019 we only got the upgrade one way and not for the return. It was pretty annoying, since I was out a bunch of points and $500. Oh, I got the upgrade to business for the domestic leg of that trip (which was how they justified keeping my points and cash), but it was the MEL to LAX leg that I really cared about. It had been a long time since we'd had to do that long leg in economy and it was rough, especially since we aren't getting any younger.
Those are excellent tips! Even if you don't get an upgrade by doing some research you can make an economy seat a better experience. I flew long haul with United recently on a 787-8 and was worried that they might use their new WILMA boarding system. As I'd booked an aisle seat right down the back, I thought I might miss out on getting space in an overhead lockers. So I bought a tiny tiny backpack that would be easy to put under the seat in front. And checked a free bag. As it turned out United did not use the WILMA boarding system but I was super glad that I'd bought the tiny backpack - there was virtually no space left in the over head bins when I boarded. Popped the little backpack under the seat & had a great flight.😀
I flew Ethiopian in July, 2024 to Rwanda and back to Toronto. 0n the way home we stopped over at AA(?A) and I was offered a change of seats from an aisle seat to one at an exit door. Lots of leg room so I accepted. Only one problem, the toilets were in front of me, and it was one constant parade of folks needing them. And this was a 16 hour trip! I was always fearful someone would grab the exit handle if they fell (lots of old or unsteady folk). The handle should have had a shield I figured. Well that was a lesson learned. P.S. The food was horrible, but then it was economy. Next time it is first class and damn the expense!
I don't see value of business class unless I am flying for work. It makes sense if you travel with a group of coworkers and then all go to lounge, then one less worry about them in a busy airport. Laptop charger ? used to be only in business class, but now economy class has that one too. I used to have two batteries and was swapping them in the middle of long flight.
Hi Megan!. I've been your subscriber for a long time. I'd love it if I could take advantage of upgrades as you explain in your video, when available, but think I will never be able to use your tips. Please correct me if I am wrong. 1. I only fly from the US to Southeast Asia and always use my AA miles earned on credit cards with AA partners. Can I still avail myself of upgrades either due to being oversold or just being offered a business or first class upgrade at an additional cost? I have no flyer status since almost all my flights are purchased with miles. As it has never happened since 2017. 2. As I am in Asia usually for 6-8 weeks I always have a checked bag. Anxiously awaiting your tips :-). Thank you. Bob
I was bumped up to first class for a flight from California to Florida. I was so excited! Then there was a pilots strike and my flight was changed without the upgrade 😕
I've gotten some free downgrades, as well as upgrades. 😆 Painful ones at that, since I have long legs. On most European flights, the only real upgrade for me is the emergency aisles. I would not trade that for cramming myself into a regular seat with a nice sandwich and a complimentary drink. I have upgraded to an emergency aisle seat because I could understand the Irish and Scottish dialects of the flight attendants and volunteered to switch seats when the people sitting by the emergency exit didn't. So, I guess some language skills help! 😁
@@PortableProfessional As you know, you need to understand the instructions of the flight crew in an emergency in these seats, at least the passenger expected to open the emergency door. That is what the flight crew is there for. On some quite short flights (about 1 hour) on some airlines they don't even bother with trying to serve or sell you anything, which is sort of a side-hustle for the airline.
All of our flights involve domestic travel (USA), and we rarely have any that involve greater than 4 hours on any one plane. I would say that all of our flights are fully booked…..so that doesn’t give any wiggle room for last-minute upgrades. There have been a couple of times when we did 24 hour checkin that they offered us upgrades….but they weren’t free, and I don’t recall if there was a discount for those seats.
Polaris on United. The airline added a direct route to my trans-Atlantic destination and Premium Economy wasn't available. My travel agent convinced them to put me in Polaris.
With everything being susceptible to technical glitches these days, I'd be afraid that I'd make the bid, not get any notification that I'd won, make the trip in economy, only to find later that I'd been charged anyway.
I am finding these days since the pandemic airlines are not offering upgrades unless you have medallion points. Lots of points. We always give all check in counter, gate staff and flight crew handwritten notes with $10 Starbucks gift cards. They pour over us with words of appreciation, but never an offer to upgrade us o an empty plane. We do not do it for that reason but that would be appreciated. I did ask a gate attendant about paying for upgrading and she said Delta doesn’t do that.
I don’t like having to bid for an upgrade. When there are two people there is also no garuntee you will sit together. No thanks! I check day before to see if there is anything and then decide based on that. Again, I can’t be bothered bidding. I fly premium and business most often
Hi 😊 I recently travelled business class with “Dlta”. I used my rewards for the seat upgrade from economy. The plane turned out to be pretty empty. The attendant called me by name and offered a row in the back to myself. This has never happened to me and I didn’t know what to say, except no thank you. If I was offered to go to first class, I would’ve accepted the offer. This offer was not extended to a university student sitting next to the window. For many years now, my husband and I have only flown with this airline. What question(s) should I have asked? Thank you
There is no such thing as First Class within North America, unless you are flying out to Europe, Asia and other destinations. I was upgraded from economy to business on Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt. I was boarding the last, and Hansa said that they needed my seat for a group of scouts. Also, I had the return business booked on points.
I'm so upset by Delta at the moment. I wanted to use miles and dollars for round trip first class Houston to Edinburgh, Scotland. I was told I couldn't combine dollars and miles for first class! One way cost a bit over $7000! One way! I flew home with only one stop (instead of the 2 on Delta) on British Airways in business, which was way better than first class on Delta, for less than half that price. I now have over 169,000 miles with Delta. How can I get a decent first class, Houston to Scotland? Tips? Delta's first class was crowded, no privacy and no pad underneath me for sleeping. The central air was so hot everyone complained. And the flight attendants were talking and laughing all night. I arrived in the morning so tired.
One time air France offered 900 to trade a seat. Someone in important business don't want to miss that flight. No one traded a seat. Thinking back i regret. I retired and was in vacation. AF even offered meals and free airport lounge and 900 all in pocket. I missed easy money!!!
Great information, as always! I would add that using an airline-branded credit card w/a frequent flyer program is also helpful-it can speed up the process to Medallion status as well as add perks.
I booked "comfort" class at i believe it was Air Holland from Amsterdam to the Dominican Republics. They had economy, comfort and first class. But then the the whole company "Air Holland" went bankrupt and Holland Excel took over. Holland excel had only economy and first class. So they gave us 2 first class tickets for the same flight.
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Twice we were moved to first class. One I was standing in front of a pilot getting coffee and he ended up being our pilot, I bought his coffee. After the doors were closed he came looking for me and said he had two in first class and took us to them. Second time was after a fight was cancelled and everyone had to stand in line to rebook. Naturally everyone was mad and took it out on the people at the desk. When it was my turn they asked how they could help. Well first I would like for you to take a deep breath and relax. I'm sorry everyone is treating you so bad it's not your fault and you shouldn't be treated like this. The lady who was working next to the person taking care of me reached over and handed me the tickets. I thought she made a mistake but she smiled and said no, enjoy your flight. Just be nice it's not hard and there is such a thing as good karma
Is excellent advice especially in Irregular Operations situations. Wasn’t an upgrade, but a good friend was on his was on his way from Amersterdam to meet me when AMS (not even just KLM but basically the whole airport) was in meltdown. The security queue was kilometers long (literally) and he had shown up about four hours before the flight. Had SkyTeam elite status (but they erroneously charged him for his bag - that got refunded later down the line) so was even using the Sky Priority lines. Still waiting just to get through security, he calculates that there is no way he will get to the gate in time, so heads back to check-in desks to talk about rebooking. First agent tells him there’s not a flight for two days and the change fee is more than his original flight cost… he’s less experienced flying than I am, and he was writing gutted that we’d miss celebrating birthdays together (we were meeting because we have birthdays two days apart) and he could miss a really good music festival he’d paid a lot of money for. So he was really gutted about an airport problem that was not his fault, and to a great extent also not KLM’s fault since it was the airport that was in a state of meltdown just after COVID restrictions and been lifted and there was almost zero staffing for high-summer demand.
Anyway to finish a long story shortly, he finds another agent in the check-in or possibly ticketing area (thinking he may need to buy a new ticket, and that happens in another place). He explains in a nice, calmed-down way (he had been quite tense already), Listen, I really like your country, I like KLM from past travels, I know this isn’t your fault, but look at this. Trash is piled in the airport, there are queues that can take four hours to wait in (he had been in one). This is unrecognizable and now I may miss several days and important events as a result. He made this all very calmly, and he also has a way of turning on charm when necessary. The agent says, “Yes, I know. I’m sorry. What can I do for you?” He says he just wants to get to Stockholm, or even anywhere with a train or ferry to Stockholm. She taps away, seconds later hands him a boarding card for the next flight to Stockholm.
Now, I’m sure that seat was probably from someone who had also missed a connection or a flight owing to the chaos, but I’ve no doubt his demeanor and rational explanation that he knew the airport was the issue, not her, not even the airline, made her look a little harder and get him onto the flight.
When things go wrong, calm down, be nice, express empathy that the person in front of you is not the person who made this problem, and genuinely seek their help. They usually will if they can, and break a few “rules” if they need to when it comes to changes, repricing, etc.
Brown nose always works 😂
I've been extremely courteous like that but I've never had any employee reciprocate in any particularly nice way.
@@Katy32344keep trying. Because it’s who you, not for what you want.
@@Katy32344Looks play a role in this
While on my way to Spain, I got an upgrade to a First Class Seat as a result of a high school trip to Spain. The airline overbooked the flight, and offered $400.00 voucher and booking on the next flight. I accepted and got off the plane. When I got to the desk for my voucher, (Last in line), they told me there had one seat left on the plane. Figuring that was my kind of luck, I grabbed my bag and followed the attendant. When we entered the plane, she turned left and I followed to a wonderful 7.5 hour flight to Spain. What a deal for me.
I once wore my military uniform just to get free checked bags.
And once plane was in the air, I was offered a seat in first class.
Thank you for my service.
I used 15k miles to book a one way economy ticket from SFO to HNL on United. Every day I would check out on the app how much it would cost to upgrade to first class and most times it would be over a thousand dollars. However getting closer to the flight, I saw the price drop to 399 but it was a middle first class seat. I purchased it and then on the day of the flight, they switched the type of plane and now I’m sitting by the window on a Polaris flight without having to pay extra. Score!!!
One time my wife and I were upgraded to business from San Francisco to London Heathrow by taking a flight a day later, as they were overbooked. Was the best flight ever.
Another time flying from London back to SF, we were supposed to fly through Chicago where there was a massive storm, so lots of folks on standby. We agreed to take a flight a day later, and they gave us $700 each (paid for our flights the next time), a free 4* hotel for the night in London, and a flight that went direct to SF
Nahhhhhh
Nice. Which airline ? I had a flight delay for a day and to spent a night on highway motel. It was Lufthansa. Motel was ok, but I wish it was in the city, so I can get some meal or something.
Yep….that happens if you offer your seat when the flight is overbooked. The only thing they probably didn’t tell you is that you are a standby passenger on the next flight so if it is overbooked again, you might have to wait it out another day. If the flight leaves in the morning not too bad of a situation however if it leaves at night, by noon you have to leave the hotel and wait 8-10 hours at the airport not knowing you will get on or not. The denied boarding compensation will equal to double the one way price of the flight the person was bumped from up to $775. If no one had volunteered, the airline would have had to pick someone and then given them 400% of the one way fare up to $1350 to put the passenger on a subsequent flight over 2 hours later than the orignal departure. This said, they can offer more money if the want to.
Nice
I work as a flight attendant for a major airline. For us, if the agent doesn’t upgrade you, it’s most likely not going to happen. However, there have been rare times I’ve upgraded people in order to sort out seating issues. We can be fired for just upgrading people.
Interesting. How come you didn't get fired?
I think unless for really short trips, asking say a solo traveler to move to a less desirable spot in the same type cabin so say a couple or family can be together is a bit...if they are upgrading the solo traveler up a class or offer some service exchange then I think maybe fair game...those solo book or choose those seats in advance for a reason but for emergency cases I can understand...or at least add some mile points for good karma??
@@DiamondsRexpensivewe have limited ‘leeway’ in order to get the flight out. These are exceptions 😊
Really? Getting fired? How often have I seen Flight Attendants talking to friends on board on a red eye and as people got ready to sleep and the lights were turned down, these friends were moved to first class. Come on…it happens way too often. Next time someone reading this is on a red eye flight, look at what happens once the lights go down.
@@Flownthecoup23 I love the way carinep.4520 generalizes and offers information that h/s has no experience in or can justify. Just pissed off h/s didn't get that upgrade, so complains and lies about it. I was in customer service for 40 years. So glad I am retired. :)
On a trip from London to San Francisco, I had asked for an upgrade when checking in (1999). I was shown my seat and was sitting in it when a young boy came along and advised me I was sitting in his seat! I asked him to find a flight attendant, which he did, and she came along and asked me to follow her. I was shown to the first class cabin and had a wonderful flight. I did not have to pay any upgrade fee.
Nice! Those last minute upgrades make the experience even more enjoyable!
Also had a similar incident! Having flown to the Philippines to attend a loved one's funeral wasn't exactly a trip was looking forward to, so it bummed me out when on my flight back home (Manila to Dubai leg of the flight via Emirates), there was a man sitting on the seat I booked online. We checked our boarding passes, and true enough, we have the same seat number. I immediately informed an FA about the situation and after a few minutes, she came back and asked me to come along - and, voilà, she led me to my "new" seat in business class! It was a treat! At that moment, I thought to myself, " Thanks, Dad, for the nice goodbye gift!"
Sweet ending too.
My sympathy 🙏@lepunksmoothie
So many people are flying now days that unless you are a high status frequent flier you aint getting upgraded period. If you are an infrequent flier, even if you are in their frequent flier program, trust and believe there is someone higher than you who will get that seat. This has not always been the case but planes are so full now there just arent empty seats in business/first. We fly often and only on United ever. In June we flew nonstop from SFO to Rome FCO. The outbound flight was 100% full. The return was full in Polaris (united's business/first class) but not that full in coach and i heard a flight attendant telling someone they could spread out. My husband is 1K million miler and he hasnt been upgraded on an international flight in years.
The days of free upgrades on long over. Too many people would get economy hoping for a upgrade. They now will fly with first class empty before giving them away.
I was in Italy for work in 2019. Prior to my departure, I received several emails to upgrade from premium economy to Business. I did not take the original offers, as the airline was asking for $3.6K. The day before departure, they dropped the price to $800. Well worth for a 9+ hour flight. It was probably the best flight I’ve had. I landed feeling refreshed, not to mention the pampering while in that class seating
3600 dollars for a business class seat? Are those normal prices? oO
@@Serjo777 depending on the itinerary, business class can be pricey. I was flying from Naples to Philadelphia
Upgraded to 1st class for $125 from Toronto to Dublin, excellent choice, total lay flat seats, champagne, menu and dedicated hostess
Good to know! I have flown biz class - and I love it! I've become so spoiled. I like everything about the biz class experience: priority check-in, priority security, priority bag (although, I can think of only once where my bag was amongst the first out), lounge access, priority boarding, elevated food and drink...I almost feel like a star.
A strange thing happened to me a couple of years ago. I worked for the US Government, but was on a personal trip from Washington, DC to Manila, Philippines on Emirates Airlines (a favorite of mine). It was my FIRST fight with Emirates. I flew from Wash, DC to Dubai, UAE --a long flight in Economy. I checked into the gate for my connecting Flight. There was a table set up outside the waiting area with a woman holding a portable radio. She took my Passport and my Boarding Pass, and told me to have a seat in the waiting area, someone would return my papers. Eventually, 98% of the passengers were already on the plane and I had no ticket, boarding pass or passport and was about to panic. So I asked an official where my papers were, and they gave them back to me and told me to board the plane, but the Ticket was for First Class from Dubai to Manila, another long flight. It was a great flight! Is that rare that airlines upgrade to First Class on an International Flight for a first-time customer flying with that airline?
I got a free upgrade, Vancouver to Rejkavik because at the last minute they changed my Edm-Rejkavik flight left from Vancouver. So they flew me to Van. and put me first class for the long flight.
First class! Very nice!
In 1995 I was upgraded to business class by Asiana Airlines. Was traveling with my 18 month old daughter. It was awesome.
I was bumped up to first class once because my armrest was broken. But the BEST story was a guy I knew back in the days when the Concorde was still flying. He was scheduled for a regular transatlantic flight on a regular plane, but they kept cancelling one flight and putting him on another and then cancelling that, and telling him he could leave for a while and then suddenly calling him telling him instead to hurry back, etc. etc., and they had (unintentionally) jerked him around so much that they took pity on him and upgraded him to the Concorde for no extra charge!! So he got from NYC to London in 3 hours.
wow sir you go way back to the Concorde days, only been on when it was a 'museum' now is in some desert graveyard I think...but can't wait till Concorde 2.0 or Airlander type replacements (the 3 hours is like the kid with the super CPU back in the days when others still loading to install their game)
@@s4lino The best part of the flight was when the captain announced he was turning on the afterburners. Already flying at about 600mph, you got pushed back in your seat! An incredible plane.
I dream of Concord….
@@s4lino
I don't know about the whole "chocolates for the attendants" being cringy. From what I've read, they usually really appreciate it, and I've done it on two flights before and the attendants were very happy at the thoughtful gesture. I wasn't doing it to try and score an upgrade or anything. I was just doing it to help show my appreciation for everything they do for us passengers. I wouldn't do gift cards because those are too variable - i wouldn't know how many attendants are on my fight, where they'd want a gift card to, etc. I wouldn't want to get them a fast food gift card and then find out that they don't really eat at McDonalds or wherever. Prepackaged, individually wrapped Chocolates are usually a safe choice because most people enjoy them, they're sharable amongst the entire crew, and they're affordable for the passenger to give. I gave Lindt truffles last time in a factory sealed bag just so the attendant could have confidence that they hadn't been tampered with. Again, they were incredibly appreciative.
Thinking about it, Megan's comment is cringy.
I got a upgraded to Polaris business class last year on a United FRA-DEN flight. I booked my journey in premium economy & redeemed miles for upgrade waitlist on the outbound Durango CO. My connection to Denver had upgrade confirned but not for the leg to Frankfurt. As for return flight, I recieved the good news from United just as boarding commenced so I was able to switch to group 1 line!
I was in Atlanta and the plane was so late I was booked on another airline. I missed the flight and finally found customer service for that airline. I told them I missed the flight and could they help. The young lady checked and said she couldn't help. I told her that I would be homeless in Atlanta if I couldn't a ticket. She looked again and handed me a couple of tickets. She acted like I had done her an extreme injustice. While I didn't get an upgrade. I had standby tickets that got me home.
I guess it it was an upgrade from being homeless.
Interesting ideas but I am one to just book the flight and pick my seat which is economy or economy plus. I feel fine and happy just to be flying and looking out a window. It is the vacation spot where I prefer to spend the little extra money on things. It is just me I suppose.! Love all you do for us Megan and Ollie is such a cutie.
Thanks for watching! We all have priorities for those extra dollars. I like yours! Happy travels!
I have upgraded passengers just because they were nice and were dressed nicely. It was so much fun and I made a statement!
Highest I've flew was Business class. Once I got a free upgrade from a transit to a long haul flight. It was a life changer. 😅
I recently flew on American using miles and found that taking flights at odd times or adding one stop significantly reduced the miles required. A direct from Mexico City to NY on Business/First was almost 100,000 miles. By flying to Dallas and grabbing a flight one hour later, it went down to 30,000 miles. I found it was also very comfortable to divide the long flight into two shorter segments and, in both Mexico City and Dallas, I had access to the Admiral’s Club.
Your presentations are helpful, up to date and professionally delivered. I learn something important in each video.
I've only flown short-haul as an adult, and with budget airlines, but if I end up travelling more than I have done so far, I'll certainly keep these tips in mind. (And it honestly can't hurt to dress nicely, who wants to be the one scruff amongst the business class passengers?!)
I always fly solo and with only carry-on, and sometimes I can be flexible with my time. I've never thought to offer to take a different flight when they invariably find they've sold too many seats. Thanks for the tip!
Your welcome! Good luck on a future upgrade!
I chose premium economy for my flight from Newark to London and back.
I also always bring the flight attendants and crew chocolates of some sort as a token appreciation, lol not for an upgrade! I feel like they have the worst job so a little something to brighten their day is worth a few bucks!
I have brought the flight attendants and ticket agents chocolate and candies on more than one occasion. They have made sure to keep an eye out for me. We have gotten better seats in our same class and extras when flying.
Thanks Megan for the tips. I’m on my second of at least 3 consecutive round trips from the west coast to Bangkok on Philippines Airlines, starting next Monday with a flight from KC to the west coast, a 4 hour layover, then a flight to Manila, a 4 hour layover, and a flight to Bangkok. Then, a 10 hour layover and a taxi ride from the airport to the train station and a 13 hour ride to Chiang Mai; my final destination where I’ll be at for 29 days. I fly PAL because I can buy round trip tickets for $600. I can use points on Southwest Airlines to get from my hometown to the west coast, and my train ticket costs $23. I have 2 checked bags at nearly 23 kilos, a carryon at 7 kilos and a small backpack of varying weight. I wear a hoodie, so I can stuff 1=2 lithium batteries in each pocket. I give myself plenty of time between legs of flights because PAL is notorious for being late and occasionally for cancelling flights. I’m taking the train because of the baggage that I have. The one thing that I promise not to do while waiting for my PAL flight on the west coast is not to offer to watch someone’s bags on a seat next to mine. Not because I’m afraid of being arrested over it. I just don’t care to spend hours replying to people here that feel like I’m taking a big chance in watching someone’s belongings. I said all that I care to say about the subject on another of Megan’s videos. Besides, I’ll be in CM seeing how many days in a tow I can eat Khao Soi.
I prefer to book my travel early in the day, mostly for the potential impact of weather delays. But by planning early flights, I can accommodate getting bumped off an oversold flight and leveraging that bump to upgraded seating or extra miles/points for the loyalty program. Also if I’m traveling solo I feel I have greater flexibility than if traveling with family.
Just from too much travel, I got seating upgrades several times per year with US Airways, but not so much since they merged with American.
The very first time I ever flew I was upgraded, without my asking, to first class. It was for both flights from Michigan to California. I didn't know how nice first class was as I had nothing to which to compare it. Since then I've flown Economy, and the last couple of times, Delta's Comfort Plus. I really think the Comfort Plus is a worthwhile upgrade.
You always have the best content, Megan! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts! My next trip is to Croatia going down to Albania in November! It should be fun! I have also booked Peru and Machu Picchu in May 2025! Peru is on my bucket list and that will take me to 20 foreign countries visited! It is great to get out of the US craziness for a bit of time! Safe travels!!
Thank you, Patrick! You have some exciting trips planned. Enjoy!
I was flying to Sydney from NYC once. First leg had a layover in Manilla. I had a premium eco seat at the bulkhead but the pop out tv screen didn't want to come out so was upgraded to Business right after the flight took off. Was great on a 12+ hour flight. :)
recently flew with etihad from europe to malaysia, truly best economy experience I had. seat were really comfy and had most legroom. food selection and service also the best. would fly again.
I have flown in First Class on Singapore Airlines long distance. It was amazing.
What a great airline to start with so I can only imagine the comfort of first class! Happy travels!
@@PortableProfessional It was not my only time in First Class (before or since) but it was by far the best. Instead of lie-flat seats, the upper deck of the 747 had actual beds you could use after dinner/whenever in the main FC cabin. .
Thanks for your video!
Some years ago, I fly from Chile to England for a workshop-meeting at Cambridge University. On the way out, I find out at London Heathrow in the line-up that the assigned AA LHR-DFW flight has been cancelled. Not a pretty scene: hundreds of pax inconvenienced, and a "little" annoyed, especially with potential transatlantic flights to alternate cities with tight or poor connections to pax' intended destinations. After about 20-minutes in the line-up with extra contemplation and quick calls to me mates, I calmly and gently say to the AA agents (a) I don't have to fly out today, especially because I still have the international DFW-SCL and domestic SCL-LSC connections which I'm never going to make; and (b) would it be possible to route me in the "opposite" direction into continental Europe (re. Frankfurt, Germany), and I can do the massive reverse trip in a few days' time? This had the immediate benefit of getting this passenger "out of their hair" for the time being, and move "my problem" for a later date. The agent spoke to their supervisor, and within about 15 minutes, I was booked LHR-FRA that day, and my return (FRA-LHR) LHR-DFW, DFW-SCL, SCL-LSC was set in 3 days' time. If memory serves, I did ask and I might have in fact received an upgrade to business-class on one of the two international legs on return. I did have 1 piece of checked luggage, but in this case, it was not a big deal. Meanwhile, because I used to live in Germany, I decided to go "home" to Heidelberg and hang out with friends for a couple of days; Frankfurt to Heidelberg is a relatively easy journey on the train.
Our business used to have trade exchange with several airlines, this was many years ago. What I would give (money excluded) to travel first class now that I am in my 80's. 😊
I was upgraded twice, once to First Class & once to Business Class for free, without asking for it. The First Class upgrade happened because my partner was in Business Class & I was in Economy. We wanted to sit together & there wasn't another Business Class seat available so we were both moved to First Class. The Business Class upgrade happened because there was a large group of Far East travelers causing a hold up at check in. I waited patiently. Because I was patient, I was moved to Business Class; went to the private dining room; and was let on to the plane first. Of course, you have to dress for the part. And I love dressing up. ☺
I've been upgraded from business class to first class between Vienna and Tokyo a couple of times. The folks I was working for booked us in business class for any trip over a certain length, and I got really spoiled.
Hello and thank you for all the great info, Megan. I've been watching your channel for about the past year and have learned quite a bit. However, I must take exception with your comment about chocolates and dressing nicely being 'cringe'. My wife and I have flown about a dozen times on Delta and Alaska Airlines over the past two years and as we step onto the plane I'll give the first flight attendant we see a small package of chocolates (something nice such as Ghirardelli), and say "it's for you and the rest of the flight crew". I have a cousin who was a flight attendant for years so I know how tough their job is, well, second-hand knowledge anyway. We're not looking for anything from the flight crew, but the response has been a sincere 'thank you' in every case. There have been a few times where a different flight attendant came over to us mid-flight and asked if we were the ones who brought the candy - and then thanked us again.
All the best.
Actually, the flight crew cannot eat any passenger gifts like the chocolates you’re talking about. They have to be very vigilant about unscrupulous people with nefarious intentions. She may have thanked you for the kind gesture, but your chocolates were probably trashed.
Aww, what a shame.
Being nice to the attendants is always a good idea, tho. Even if they don’t remember you, they’ll appreciate the kindness & feel a bit less taken-for-granted. Nobody likes that.
I've done that plenty of times and sometimes get free food and drinks or the FAs "forget" to charge me anything I've purchased inflight. The trick is to make sure to hand the gifts to the flight attendant working in your section, which you can easily notice by where they're standing during boarding, so if you're flying economy, don't give the treats to FAs at the door. Walk further down the aisle and give the treats to the FA standing closer to your seat, so when they start the food and beverage service you're likely to see that FA again and they will be VERY nice to you. I've been upgraded to Business once after doing that, but that flight was almost empty, so they had a lot of leeway to move passengers around.
Planes are fully loaded these days, seems hard to get a cheap upgrade
I would love to fly first or business class. Sadly, I'm a poor peasant LOL I'm just happy to get an aisle seat when I do long haul flights.
Aisle seat is my preference as well! Happy travels!
I’m travelling with my daughter next month, 2-hour flight, & have booked the aisle & window seats. If the middle one goes, one of us may swap. We’ll see.
I fly business now for any flight over 4 hrs. Under that I do whatever may be "fancy economy"😂 the other day I was flying Delta with 2 pieces of checked luggage. By the time you add in my luggage fees I was $30 away for business upgrade which the bags would then be free. So I did that.
Years ago I flew alot.What I'd always do when I checked in at the gate would ask if the flight was overbooked.Much of the time it was so I'd volunteer to be bumped and get on the next flight an hour or two later. This worked 4or5 times and I"d get money or a free flight in the future and sometimes an upgrade.
On two flights, one to Hawaii the other to the UK we received an upgrade from economy to the upper deck on a 747. One flight we were sent back to check a bag and upon return, we were ushered upstairs. Who's going to argue with that?
I always purchase the Al Mahal Services on Qatar Air especially since my surgeries. I never thought about getting upgrades on my seats or class and might give it a try next time I go to the Philippines. Qatar Air biz class and Premium Economy are some of the best in theworld and I'd be delighted to experience them.
I fly United in and out of Denver. I cannot tell you the last flight I was on either in or out where they did not start by saying they were expecting a full flight. I have checked available seats a couple of days before my flight and there are at best maybe 3 or 4 available seats on the entire plane, usually in economy. I don't know about any of you, but my happy backside will never see an opportunity for an upgrade once I buy my ticket.
We started flying first class especially when travelling to Hawai'i. The lay down bed seating on Hawaiian airlines and the service is fantastic. I agree that Air Canada is nothing special. Not a fan of them but for me to go back to see family they are my only option for most of the year.
Best upgrade I had was an upgrade to Concorde. Snow had hit America and I was trying to get back to London from Minneapolis. My flight to Chicago to catch my BA flight was delayed and I missed my flght. I blagged a free seat to NY, then asked BA for an upgrade to Concorde so I could get back to London in time for a meeting. After much persuasion they agreed.
A few weeks later, on the same route home, but my last one, I was upgraded to first class from Chicago to London. As a parting gift on my last day on the Mineapolis contract I was given a huge teddy bear for my new born son. The BA staff said the teddy needed a seat and upgraded me to 1st so there was a 'buddy' seat for the teddy. They also gave me a bottle of Krug when I expained the teddy was for my son. The days when BA were the world's favourite airline.
One important thing I would suggest people figure out is how much points are worth in equivalent cash. So for example, with Southwest, it may be (and this depends on how the points were accrued) it may be that one point is equal to say 1 or 2 cents. If you can figure out the average of what one point gets you for your ariline of choice you can make informed decisions as to whether some deals are worth it or not (such as upgrades with points). There may be times (I found at least once or twice) where using points to pay for an upgrade didn't really pay out in the end as it cost more points than it would have, dollars, for a particular upgrade, like moving from Economy to a premium economy class (larger seat, and power port for example) on some airlines.
The highest class I've flown is business. On one trip, itwas from Chicago to Switzerland so that paid out nice. It actually worked out in my favor and I actually did not have to pay for the upgrade. An error in the ticketing process from the airline caused me to get a free upgrade (after a stressful boarding process that is). But this was a seat that would have cost me about $1,000 more at the time (I think my economy ticket was $600 round trip). Of course the upgrade was only for one way, so I had to fly economy on the way back, but for a 7 hour flight, business was great. I will generally fly economy, unless it is a longer (possibly "red-eye") flight and someone else is paying.
Taking a later flight is a little hack I've used here and there. For example, if I'm returning from a trip (business trip) an dI have a travel day (basically a whole day assigned for traveling) I'll usually fly out early in the morning. This has paid off because I have opted to take a later flight when these opportunities arise and collect some flight vouchers which I generally will then use for personal travel like vacations, and since I have a full travel day where I don't have to report for work because I'm traveling, this allows me that flexibility. Worse case is that I just get home in the morning sometime (late morning usually if it's a 6am flight for example) and I don't get offered any vouchers for taking a later flight. But so far, it has paid for some trips in some cases (although I haven't gotten that much in the way of vouchers over time, maybe enough for 4 or 6 free flights so far). But for the last part, the malfunctioning entertainment system, had this happen on the flight back from Switzerland, and they offered a 50% credit (so it would have been about $300 if I remember correctly as the free upgrade didn't count towards this calculation) in travel credit, which would have paid for half of another flight to Switzerland around the same time of year, but i never took advantage of this and the voucher expired something like 12 months after issue (they had to do this for all passengers as the entertainment system failed on the plane in general, so nobody could use it; but this is a good reason to bring your own tablet with movies or music or a book to read).
I flew first class from Vancouver to Las Vegas years ago. I was asking a question at the gate. They gave me the info and then asked if I'd like to upgrade to first class for $40. I was like umm of course yes lol.
Then another guy also upgraded. He didn't tell his friends though. As they boarded and walked past him they were all calling him a bastard haha.
Thank you, Megan! When it comes to choosing a better airline - that works only if other airlines are available with schedules that you can work with. American is the only airline serving my closest airport. You’ve provided some very cool tips in this video, though.
Thank you...for giving details plus your own experience
Thanks. Anytime i am heading home from a work trip, I will try volunteering for a later flight where I will bid low but ask for an upgrade.
the point is to make yourself comfortable. not getting that class. i have the money to burn so i fly whenever whatever class i want. go ahead bug
@@nono-c1j if I am not in a hurry, personally… I rather wait and have more leg room. At least for longer legs
Dear Portable Professional do you have any ideas for someone who is going to make his 1st International Travel to Israel?
Oh, Have you been to Israel?
Yep I have traveled the U.S. extensively and to Canada and Mexico for mostly Business in the U.S. and for some travel for pleasure. At 66 years old travel now is for pleasure and I like traveling with Delta Air because they have the best 1st Class and the best/new planes ✈️ (if you ask me).
I got upgraded on BA from LHR to JFK once to business class, it was nice but I'd have preferred it on the JFK to LHR leg so I could sleep. I simply said to a gate agent at checking in on TAP jn LIS that I've never been in first class. She put me in first class from LIS into Terceira in the Azores. It was only a 2 hour flight but nice and pre-9/11. Maybe someday my financial picture will allow me the opportunity to do this on the regular but for now I'll power through in economy but will always ask if I can upgrade for a small amount of $$.
This by no means guarantees an upgrade but what it can generally do is make any dealings with airport peeps go much smoother, and help with an unasked for upgrade. And really everywhere out in the world
Dress sharp.
Comfortable but sharp. Slacks, dress shoes, button down shirt, tie and jacket if you want.
It's really a fun social experiment to try if u dress comfortable, ie; like a slob. Dress well when u go out. There is a marked difference in how we are treated simply by our dress.
I've flown First between two UAE states. No sooner was champagne given than it was ..... cleared away for landing. Darn it!
Very helpful video, which I'll watch again.
Glad you enjoyed the video but too bad you couldn't enjoy the champagne!
Great tips, especially the Seat Guru one although you are “rolling the dice” on that one. I’ve been upgraded only once, it was a long time ago and, honestly, I don’t remember why. I’m traveling to Italy in September, will certainly keep these tips in mind! Thanks for a great video Megan 🤗 Oh, enjoyed having your ‘sidekick’ make an appearance!
Did not realize that seat upgrade bidding was a thing all these years. Wow, I have been flying in basic mode all this time. Your video is enlightening!
I got a free 1st class upgrade from Seoul, South Korea to Hawaii. 😊
That must have been a nice flight!
United has a system where you can pay points plus some cash for a business class upgrade, even from a discounted economy ticket. The trouble is, the upgrade isn't guaranteed and they keep your points and cash even if you don't get the upgrade. I've done this several times flying from US to Australia (the upgrade is SO worth it for that long trans-Pacific flight) and it used to be that I'd get notified of the upgrade several days before the flight. But the last flight I did in 2019 we only got the upgrade one way and not for the return. It was pretty annoying, since I was out a bunch of points and $500. Oh, I got the upgrade to business for the domestic leg of that trip (which was how they justified keeping my points and cash), but it was the MEL to LAX leg that I really cared about. It had been a long time since we'd had to do that long leg in economy and it was rough, especially since we aren't getting any younger.
Those are excellent tips! Even if you don't get an upgrade by doing some research you can make an economy seat a better experience. I flew long haul with United recently on a 787-8 and was worried that they might use their new WILMA boarding system. As I'd booked an aisle seat right down the back, I thought I might miss out on getting space in an overhead lockers. So I bought a tiny tiny backpack that would be easy to put under the seat in front. And checked a free bag. As it turned out United did not use the WILMA boarding system but I was super glad that I'd bought the tiny backpack - there was virtually no space left in the over head bins when I boarded. Popped the little backpack under the seat & had a great flight.😀
Great video, made even better by Ollie!
Thank you! He loves to show off!
Actually dressing nice and chocolates do work also compliments and a smile are good ways to upgrade. Not at all cringe.
I flew Ethiopian in July, 2024 to Rwanda and back to Toronto. 0n the way home we stopped over at AA(?A) and I was offered a change of seats from an aisle seat to one at an exit door. Lots of leg room so I accepted. Only one problem, the toilets were in front of me, and it was one constant parade of folks needing them. And this was a 16 hour trip! I was always fearful someone would grab the exit handle if they fell (lots of old or unsteady folk). The handle should have had a shield I figured. Well that was a lesson learned. P.S. The food was horrible, but then it was economy. Next time it is first class and damn the expense!
Glad Cutiedoodle also starred in this episode! As always, thank you for the great tips and tricks Megan! Much appreciated!
You're so welcome! Ollie was very pleased with his performance.
I’ve been in first class on a short flight but long haul premium economy 2 times!!!
I don't see value of business class unless I am flying for work. It makes sense if you travel with a group of coworkers and then all go to lounge, then one less worry about them in a busy airport. Laptop charger ? used to be only in business class, but now economy class has that one too. I used to have two batteries and was swapping them in the middle of long flight.
I travelled from New Delhi to Chicago, 16 Hrs. flight. Air India promoted my Seat to Business Class, Complimentery !!!!
Nice! Happy travels!
Hi Megan!. I've been your subscriber for a long time. I'd love it if I could take advantage of upgrades as you explain in your video, when available, but think I will never be able to use your tips. Please correct me if I am wrong.
1. I only fly from the US to Southeast Asia and always use my AA miles earned on credit cards with AA partners. Can I still avail myself of upgrades either due to being oversold or just being offered a business or first class upgrade at an additional cost? I have no flyer status since almost all my flights are purchased with miles. As it has never happened since 2017.
2. As I am in Asia usually for 6-8 weeks I always have a checked bag.
Anxiously awaiting your tips :-).
Thank you.
Bob
Have to try the bidding process but seems like all my flights over the years are full so choice is very limited if at all available.
I was bumped up to first class for a flight from California to Florida. I was so excited! Then there was a pilots strike and my flight was changed without the upgrade 😕
Yeah PDX! Waiting for new videos since the beautiful remodel was completed.
Thank you! I heart your videos, as am flying twice this year. Or, two trips with multiple legs. Very much appreciate your tips!
Glad to help! Enjoy your trips!
I've gotten some free downgrades, as well as upgrades. 😆 Painful ones at that, since I have long legs. On most European flights, the only real upgrade for me is the emergency aisles. I would not trade that for cramming myself into a regular seat with a nice sandwich and a complimentary drink. I have upgraded to an emergency aisle seat because I could understand the Irish and Scottish dialects of the flight attendants and volunteered to switch seats when the people sitting by the emergency exit didn't. So, I guess some language skills help! 😁
Never thought about the language but that certainly would be helpful in an emergency. Great tip for getting an upgrade.
@@PortableProfessional As you know, you need to understand the instructions of the flight crew in an emergency in these seats, at least the passenger expected to open the emergency door. That is what the flight crew is there for. On some quite short flights (about 1 hour) on some airlines they don't even bother with trying to serve or sell you anything, which is sort of a side-hustle for the airline.
I recently, flew 1st class to the Azores! It was the first time and I have to say it was really nice!!!
Ok ! I’m contemplating on a long trip to Portugal from Florida which airlines should be more accommodating? Thanks
All of our flights involve domestic travel (USA), and we rarely have any that involve greater than 4 hours on any one plane. I would say that all of our flights are fully booked…..so that doesn’t give any wiggle room for last-minute upgrades. There have been a couple of times when we did 24 hour checkin that they offered us upgrades….but they weren’t free, and I don’t recall if there was a discount for those seats.
Polaris on United. The airline added a direct route to my trans-Atlantic destination and Premium Economy wasn't available. My travel agent convinced them to put me in Polaris.
With everything being susceptible to technical glitches these days, I'd be afraid that I'd make the bid, not get any notification that I'd won, make the trip in economy, only to find later that I'd been charged anyway.
I am finding these days since the pandemic airlines are not offering upgrades unless you have medallion points. Lots of points. We always give all check in counter, gate staff and flight crew handwritten notes with $10 Starbucks gift cards. They pour over us with words of appreciation, but never an offer to upgrade us o an empty plane. We do not do it for that reason but that would be appreciated. I did ask a gate attendant about paying for upgrading and she said Delta doesn’t do that.
I don’t like having to bid for an upgrade. When there are two people there is also no garuntee you will sit together. No thanks! I check day before to see if there is anything and then decide based on that. Again, I can’t be bothered bidding. I fly premium and business most often
Hi 😊 I recently travelled business class with “Dlta”. I used my rewards for the seat upgrade from economy. The plane turned out to be pretty empty. The attendant called me by name and offered a row in the back to myself. This has never happened to me and I didn’t know what to say, except no thank you. If I was offered to go to first class, I would’ve accepted the offer. This offer was not extended to a university student sitting next to the window.
For many years now, my husband and I have only flown with this airline.
What question(s) should I have asked?
Thank you
I am soooo hoping I get upgraded into business class when I go to Japan this year. I have premi economy seats so it's possible!
Delta Airlines upgraded me to first class for free on my last trip to Costa Rica… I’m not sure why but no complaints from me…
I like the way you enunciate words. You could be a model for lip reading courses. 😅
I love your vids, so much good info.
That's great to hear!
There is no such thing as First Class within North America, unless you are flying out to Europe, Asia and other destinations. I was upgraded from economy to business on Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt. I was boarding the last, and Hansa said that they needed my seat for a group of scouts. Also, I had the return business booked on points.
My daughter once was upgraded with no reason… she even thought it was my present 😂
I'm so upset by Delta at the moment. I wanted to use miles and dollars for round trip first class Houston to Edinburgh, Scotland. I was told I couldn't combine dollars and miles for first class! One way cost a bit over $7000! One way! I flew home with only one stop (instead of the 2 on Delta) on British Airways in business, which was way better than first class on Delta, for less than half that price. I now have over 169,000 miles with Delta. How can I get a decent first class, Houston to Scotland? Tips? Delta's first class was crowded, no privacy and no pad underneath me for sleeping. The central air was so hot everyone complained. And the flight attendants were talking and laughing all night. I arrived in the morning so tired.
One time air France offered 900 to trade a seat. Someone in important business don't want to miss that flight. No one traded a seat. Thinking back i regret. I retired and was in vacation. AF even offered meals and free airport lounge and 900 all in pocket. I missed easy money!!!
This was a lot of really useful information, thank you so much for the video!
I really enjoy your videos and wish I had you as my travel partner
Keep the great videos coming 👍🏼✌🏼
Great information, as always! I would add that using an airline-branded credit card w/a frequent flyer program is also helpful-it can speed up the process to Medallion status as well as add perks.
I’ve bid for both legs of my upcoming flights to Spain on Air Canada, but I’m not holding my breath 😅. People have too many points for me to compete 😢
You never know! Good luck and have a great trip!
@@PortableProfessional Thanks ☺️
I booked "comfort" class at i believe it was Air Holland from Amsterdam to the Dominican Republics. They had economy, comfort and first class. But then the the whole company "Air Holland" went bankrupt and Holland Excel took over. Holland excel had only economy and first class. So they gave us 2 first class tickets for the same flight.
Nice video. You link didn't work, but I typed it out and found the video. Thanks
Thanks so much for letting me know! I’ll update the links 😊
I flew first-class a couple of times. More comfortable as a very tall plus size lady.
The last 3 times I have been on a plane, all classes have been completely occupied, so chance of an upgrade.
I have noticed that also. Flights are more often fully booked.
@@PortableProfessional I have a suspicion that some airlines cancel planes that are not fully booked