When traveling, whether for business or leisure, one of the most anticipated aspects of the trip is your stay at a hotel. A comfortable, well-located hotel room can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience. However, many savvy travelers know that securing a free or discounted upgrade can turn an already good experience into something extraordinary. By following a few simple strategies and tips, you can increase your chances of receiving a hotel room upgrade, ensuring a luxurious stay without the additional cost.
1. Book Through the Hotel’s Website or Loyalty Program
One of the easiest ways to improve your chances of an upgrade is by booking directly through the hotel’s website or using their loyalty program. Many hotel chains prioritize guests who book directly with them rather than through third-party booking sites like Expedia or Booking.com. This is because direct bookings save hotels money in commissions, making them more inclined to reward these guests with upgrades.
For example, major hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt have loyalty programs that often offer members priority when it comes to upgrades, especially when rooms are available. Joining these programs and booking directly through the hotel’s site ensures you’ll be considered for upgrades as a loyal customer.
2. Ask Politely at Check-In
Sometimes, simply asking for an upgrade can yield positive results. When checking in, politely inquire if any complimentary upgrades are available. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday, mention it! Hotels love to go the extra mile for guests celebrating important milestones.
Being friendly, calm, and respectful when speaking with the front desk staff can work wonders. Remember, they are more likely to accommodate your request if you approach them with a pleasant attitude.
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
Traveling during off-peak times can significantly increase your chances of receiving an upgrade. Hotels are generally less crowded during weekdays (especially outside of major holidays) or during the off-season in certain destinations. This means that there’s a higher likelihood of rooms being available for upgrades.
For example, visiting New York City in the winter or Paris during the fall might give you a better chance at receiving a room upgrade due to lower occupancy rates. Make sure to research the best times to travel for your chosen destination and take advantage of these quiet periods.
4. Use Hotel Booking Sites That Offer Upgrade Benefits
Several online booking platforms offer perks that can help you snag a room upgrade. Websites like Expedia and Booking.com often include special deals and benefits for booking with them. Additionally, using a premium service like Virtuoso (for luxury travelers) can provide added value, including room upgrades and other exclusive amenities at top-tier hotels.
If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s also a good idea to check out travel agencies or travel agents who specialize in premium hotel stays—they can help you secure upgrades or VIP benefits when booking luxury accommodations.
5. Arrive Later in the Day
Hotel room upgrades tend to be offered to guests who check in later in the day, typically after 3 pm when most of the rooms have been assessed for availability. Arriving at a later hour gives the front desk staff more flexibility in offering upgrades, as they have a clearer picture of the hotel’s occupancy for the day.
Of course, if you arrive too late and rooms are fully booked, your chances of an upgrade are slim. But being patient and arriving during the late afternoon or early evening can increase your chances of scoring a better room.
6. Book a Higher Room Category
While it may seem counterintuitive, booking a higher-tier room can also increase your chances of receiving an upgrade. If you book a standard or lower-level room, the hotel may only be able to upgrade you to a slightly better room (depending on availability). However, if you book a higher-category room, you may find yourself upgraded to an even more luxurious suite or executive room if there’s availability.
For example, booking a Deluxe Room may provide more opportunities for an upgrade to a Junior Suite or even an Executive Suite. The logic here is that if you’re already paying for a premium room, the hotel may consider you a good candidate for an even better stay.
7. Be Loyal to One Hotel Chain
Staying loyal to one hotel chain can pay off in the long run. Major chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt reward their loyal guests with frequent benefits, including upgrades. The more you stay at a specific chain, the more points you earn, which can be redeemed for room upgrades, free nights, or other amenities.
Additionally, loyalty program members often receive priority treatment when it comes to upgrades, especially if there are fewer guests checking in.
