Tips for upgrading to first class without overspending

For many travelers, securing a first-class seat might feel like a distant fantasy reserved for the wealthy elite or those with an unlimited travel budget. However, there are numerous strategies to snag a spot at the front of the aircraft without shelling out a fortune.

Often, it’s possible to secure an upgrade to first class (or business class) without needing elite status in an airline’s loyalty program or paying full fare in cash or points.

It’s true that with the current high travel demand, getting a first-class seat without paying for it can be challenging. Still, with some luck, smart tips, and the right approach, there are opportunities available.

Strategies for upgrading to first class without elite status

One of the simplest ways to secure a first-class upgrade is by having elite status, as many airlines provide complimentary upgrades as a loyalty benefit.

That said, you can still obtain an upgrade without paying the full fare, even without elite status.

Here are some tactics to keep in mind.

Utilize miles to upgrade your economy fare

A straightforward way for travelers without elite status to upgrade to first or business class without shelling out the full fare is by using miles to cover the upgrade cost.

While this doesn't necessitate elite status, it does require a solid amount of frequent flyer miles with an airline or points from credit card rewards accumulated through regular spending.

Even occasional flyers may be surprised by the number of points and miles they can accumulate by using the right credit card for everyday purchases; many of these can be transferred to airline frequent flyer programs for travel rewards, including upgrades.

For instance, American Airlines allows American AAdvantage members to use their miles for ticket upgrades, typically requiring both miles and a fee.

As you might imagine, upgrading to first class on a short domestic flight is significantly less expensive than securing a lie-flat business-class seat on an international journey. The latter can cost 25,000 miles along with $350 per traveler for an upgrade from standard economy seats.

Before you decide to splurge, it's important to evaluate the value of your miles. According to TPG's June 2024 valuations, 25,000 AAdvantage miles hold a worth of $425. Keep in mind, though, that you'll also need to pay $350 in addition to using your miles in this case.

That said, if your priority is having a comfortable seat for sleeping during your overnight flight to Europe, utilizing your miles for an upgrade can be a far more economical choice than purchasing a business-class ticket outright.

For instance, a round-trip economy fare from New York to Rome is priced at $1,171, while a Flagship business-class seat costs $6,564.

An award ticket for the same round-trip route can set you back a staggering 592,000 miles for business class.

Few travelers can justify spending over $6,500 on a single flight to Europe, and 592,000 miles is quite a steep price to pay.

Alternatively, after buying an economy ticket, you might be able to upgrade it for 25,000 miles plus $350 one-way, depending on availability. Regardless of the airline, ensure that the ticket you purchase qualifies for upgrades, as many restrictive basic economy fares are not eligible for changes, including upgrades.

If you don’t have 25,000 AAdvantage miles on hand, a credit card welcome bonus could help you reach that goal. Currently, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees) is offering an attractive 70,000 bonus miles for new cardholders who spend $7,000 within their first three months. This card has a $595 annual fee but offers significant benefits like an Admirals Club membership and a statement credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Upgrade via your credit card travel portal

Certain credit card rewards programs can assist members in upgrading their flights. Some American Express cardholders may use their American Express Membership Rewards points (or pay) to upgrade flights with airlines that partner with Amex.

To initiate an upgrade, you’ll need to submit your request through your Amex Travel account.

Airlines partnering with Amex include Air Canada (part of Star Alliance), Qantas (Oneworld), Aeromexico (SkyTeam), and Etihad, among others.

Ask a friend or family member with elite status for assistance

You can still benefit from some elite airline perks without having elite status yourself. Programs like Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan allow members to share their elite status benefits with family and friends.

Those who hold Alaska MVP Gold status or higher receive four one-way guest upgrades each year, which can be used for friends or family traveling with them, or even for guests traveling alone.

Keep in mind that there are rules regarding space availability and other considerations. However, if you have a friend or family member with status from airlines like Alaska Airlines or United Airlines, they might be able to help you secure an upgrade at no extra cost.

Place a bid for an upgrade

You might still enjoy a first-class experience even if you have no miles or haven't flown frequently before, without spending a fortune.

Certain airlines may offer an opportunity to bid for an upgrade if they anticipate having empty premium seats available. These invitations, often sent via text or email, allow you to place a bid for a seat in a higher class. If you have some miles saved, airlines like Qantas may also let you submit a bid that combines both miles and cash.

Not every flight route qualifies for upgrades, and additional restrictions may be in place. While rules differ by airline, most will provide a suggested bid amount and a minimum you must offer. Remember that many airlines limit you to bidding for a single upgrade class, meaning you might need to be booked in premium economy (if available) to secure a business-class seat through a successful bid.

Purchase a discounted upgrade

The price for upgrading to first class may drop if the airline anticipates not selling all seats at the standard fare. Many airlines prefer to earn some revenue from a seat rather than leave it empty.

If you observe low demand for your desired seat as your travel date nears, check if you can snag an upgrade at a reduced cash price.

Prices can fluctuate, so it's wise to check back periodically. Review your upcoming flight bookings to see the current upgrade costs listed by the airline.

Inquire about first-class upgrades at the check-in desk

Sadly, the fare for a first-class seat rarely decreases. However, it never hurts to check for a last-minute upgrade option.

Airlines profit more from filling their first-class seats, so the next time you're feeling generous, don't hesitate to ask at the ticket or boarding counter about availability at the front of the plane. You might be pleasantly surprised to find the additional cost is lower than you anticipated, especially when you consider the fees for extras like checked luggage.

How to secure a first-class upgrade with elite status

Naturally, securing a first-class upgrade is significantly easier if you have elite status. Many airlines provide complimentary upgrades as a benefit of being an elite member. While the specific procedures vary by airline, generally speaking, the higher your status, the better your chances of an upgrade.

This means that if you are not a higher-tier elite member, you might find yourself lower on the waiting list for an upgrade.

That said, there are additional strategies you can employ to increase your chances of landing a premium seat.

Buy instant First Class Upgrade tickets through Alaska Airlines

While numerous airlines upgrade elite members one or two days prior to their flight, Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan elite members have the option to purchase specific fares that make them eligible for an immediate upgrade.

When planning a trip like the one shown below, you'll notice four fare options instead of the usual two for Main and first-class after verifying your elite status in the fare type column on the left.

The Premium Class Upgrade option provides extra legroom seating, while the First Class Upgrade option grants access to the airline's first-class cabin.

By opting for an upgrade fare, you can qualify for an immediate upgrade, subject to availability, rather than waiting until the days leading up to your flight for your upgrade to be confirmed.

How can you check for availability? Look for the "F" symbols next to the flight details. A navy blue "F" square indicates that there is availability on that flight, while a white "F" square means there isn't any.

If you don't purchase a fare eligible for immediate upgrades, you'll be added to the upgrade waitlist.

Utilize your upgrade certificates with Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines' frequent flyer program, Delta SkyMiles, offers four Medallion elite tiers: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. All tiers come with benefits, including opportunities for complimentary upgrades to first class.

Delta Medallion elite status includes access to unlimited complimentary upgrades to first class, though Delta's upgrade process can be intricate. Your chances of being upgraded improve significantly if you hold a higher-tier status as a Platinum or Diamond Medallion member.

Members in the Platinum and Diamond tiers receive upgrade certificates called Global Upgrade Certificates and Regional Upgrade Certificates. If there's upgrade availability, these certificates can be applied as soon as you book your flight.

Like many other airlines, Delta imposes restrictions on certain fare types that prevent them from qualifying for complimentary upgrades through Medallion status.

Leverage PlusPoints for priority upgrades with United Airlines

United's system for revenue, award, and upgrade classes can be quite intricate, often perplexing even seasoned travelers.

Fortunately, TPG has simplified the understanding of United's structure with this detailed guide to United fare classes.

All members of United MileagePlus Premier tier qualify for complimentary Premier upgrades on eligible fares and routes, but only Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members are granted PlusPoints.

With PlusPoints, high-level Premier members can secure their upgrades well in advance of their flight. Premier Platinum members are awarded 40 PlusPoints upon achieving status, while Premier 1K members earn 280 PlusPoints upon reaching or maintaining their status.

The image below illustrates the pricing breakdown for United's PlusPoints upgrades. For example, upgrading from economy to Polaris business class on a long-haul flight requires 40 PlusPoints.

In general, it's wise to use PlusPoints for long-haul Polaris flights to maximize the value of your points. However, upgrading to first class is preferable regardless of the route, especially if you have points nearing expiration; it's better to utilize them for any first-class option rather than let them go unused.

Instead, whether you're booking a business-class ticket with cash or using points, keep an eye out for upgrade offers in your email before your flight, check during online check-in, or inquire at the airport check-in counter.

While the price for an upgrade may reach four figures, it could be worthwhile to experience some of the finest offerings in commercial aviation.

In summary

Whether you're looking to indulge once or increase your chances of flying in front, securing a first-class upgrade is achievable and realistic.

From redeeming miles for an upgrade to potentially winning an upgrade through a cash bid, there are numerous ways to land an upgraded seat without breaking the bank, especially with elite status or the right credit card. Even those without elite status can manage to secure a coveted seat at the front with strategic planning.