How to Actually Get an Upgrade on Your Next Flight, According to Top Travel Advisors

We’ve all heard about the elusive upgrade; someone moves up to first class, another gets handed keys to a nicer room. But how are they actually getting it? Travel + Leisure’s top travel advisors have been in this business for a long time, and if anyone can get you closer to securing the most luxe booking, it’s them. Below are their recommendations to set yourself up for success. 

Be nice.

“My best advice is to be kind. Make connections with people at the properties, build on those relationships, and most of all, treat others as you wish to be treated yourself.”—Andrea Grisdale, IC Bellagio

Forget last-minute deals.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of planning early for peak season travel. I always encourage my clients to book as far in advance as possible to get the best availability and take advantage of any early booking discounts. While last-minute deals may pop up occasionally, they are usually for leftover inventory, which translates to the least desirable or most overpriced accommodations.”—Erin Correia, Adventure Life 

Be flexible.

“Book early, be flexible, listen to suggestions, and, of course, allow a qualified travel advisor to help you curate your trip. Don’t focus on loyalty programs (some of the best international hotels are not affiliated with large chains that provide points for a stay). Instead, find lesser-known properties or brands that offer a better guest experience.”—Rob Clabbers, Q Cruise + Travel

Book early.

“The best way to obtain your preferred room in your preferred property during high season will always be to book in advance. Further, deluxe category rooms tend to book up first, leaving only the most expensive suites the longer you wait.”—Joyce Falcone, The Italian Concierge

Go in the off-season.

“We are really pushing clients to travel in the off-season so they have the best experiences. If they must travel during peak season, we ask them to start planning at least a year in advance for the best rates, guides, experiences, and accommodation choices.”—Susan Whitson, Susan Whitson Travel

Work with travel advisors.

“Knowing my clients and their travel patterns is the key to my success. I’ve booked hotels in advance for clients who like to repeat destinations, so if they do come to me with plans in the final hour, I’ve already got them covered. In addition, relationships with hotel partners have allowed me to access the sometimes ‘hidden inventory’ properties, saved just for these purposes (but shhh…you didn’t hear that from me).”—Tiffany Layne, LaVon Private Luxury

“First and foremost, use a travel advisor. I can’t tell you how often I’m able to get my clients into ‘sold-out’ hotels at the last minute with our relationships.”—Maria Diego, Diego Travel