The famous saying says that the “best things in life are free,” but when it comes to getting the best hotel rooms, they are definitely not. However, play your cards right and a complimentary upgrade might just be yours.
There’s nothing quite like arriving at a hotel after a long day of travelling and being given a larger room, or one with a better view, than the one you originally booked. It’s no myth; this can really happen and what’s even better is that there are things you can do to increase your chances of it happening to you.
So, what can you do to help get upgraded? This short guide will reveal some of the best tips and tricks that you can try.
Don’t ask directly
It’s certainly not going to help your chances if the first impression you make is that of a demanding guest. Even if you’re very polite about it, it’s best not to directly ask for an upgrade. You should get into the habit of asking indirectly.
How can you do this? Instead of asking for an “upgrade” or a “better room,” ask if there is a higher room available, or one with a specific view or which is on a certain side of the building. Hotel staff are often given some leeway to swap rooms to accommodate basic guest requests.
Travel during off-season
In order to be upgraded to a superior room, that room has got to be empty. The chances of this are obviously much more likely when the hotel is quiet.
Many hotels use these times as a chance to give guests a great experience that they will hopefully then share with others.
Join a loyalty program
If there is a particular hotel or chain that you use often, see if it has a loyalty program that you can join. As with airlines, hotels sometimes overbook room categories and need to move guests to a different room type when they arrive. This is usually an upgrade because premium room categories tend not to be as busy.
Loyal guests are usually top of the list for these free upgrades because it helps hotels make sure they keep coming back.
Book the right way
Price comparison sites can help you find great hotel deals online, but many hotels have preferred partners that they would like you to book through.
These are often independent travel agents, and successful ones who bring lots of customers to the hotel are usually able to negotiate upgrade agreements for their clients.
Mention special occasions
If it’s your honeymoon, anniversary, or even a birthday, be sure to slip this into the conversation when you book or arrive at your hotel.
In some hotels, the staff are told each day which rooms are empty and are asked to upgrade guests to fill them. It makes their job easier and improves your chances if you give them a reason to pick you.
Conclusion
Hotels aim to deliver excellent hospitality because they know it is in their interests to do so. Issuing upgrades is an easy way to keep guests satisfied. The right timing, loyalty, and even just a reasonable, tactful request all give them a valid reason to pick you.
1 comment
Loyalty members often receive complimentary upgrades as a perk, especially if they have a high status or stay frequently at the same hotel chain. Joining a program can be free, and even at the base level, it can offer upgrades when the hotel has availability. When you book directly through the hotel’s website or by calling them, rather than through third-party platforms, you are more likely to be eligible for an upgrade. Hotels prioritize guests who book directly since they save on commission fees.