Travel expert debunks 'free upgrade' hack that has fooled the internet
A travel expert has addressed a popular TikTok hack that promises to upgrade your flights for free. With the trend going viral this summer as jetsetters buckle up for a holiday abroad, Brits are desperate to know just how to save their coins whilst maxing out their luck.
One flier has circulated on TikTok, accumulating over 2.5 million views for sharing his means of a free upgrade. He said: "A little charm and confidence go a long way". Instructing viewers to go to the lengths of buying chocolates at the airport and boarding last, the user suggested fliers charmingly gift the flight attendants upon board for a magical free upgrade.
Splitting viewers in two over whether this trick really works or not has led to flying experts at Netflights coming forward to shed light on this gift-theory and whether sweet-talking is worth a shot.
Netflights' Amanda Parker said: "The travel hack of buying flight attendants a gift, and sweet-talking them when boarding the plane has gone viral. Kindness will always be appreciated by airline staff, so small gestures like snacks or gifts won't go unnoticed.
One TikTok comment shares, "as ex-cabin crew I can confirm this works". However, the chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade just by handing over a box of chocolates might be slim".
She went on, saying: "Free upgrades are usually determined by strict criteria, including frequent flyer status, ticket class, availability, and airline policies, unfortunately, not by last-minute sweet talk as you board the plane!".
"The gift and sweet-talk hack may work, so it's worth a try; but, we warn you not to get your hopes up, as these moments are the exception, not the rule! You may just strike lucky if your flight attendant likes chocolate M&M's!"
As an alternative, Netflight provided their expert tips on how to really up your chances of that sought-after upgrade and 'freebies':
Join loyalty programmes
Frequent fliers and loyal customers are most likely to bag the free upgrades so take advantage of all those summer trips by joining an airlines reward scheme. Netflight adds that "even if you don't fly frequently, some credit cards allow you to earn points that count towards upgrades. Over time, this can significantly boost your chances of an upgrade".
Travel in off-peak periods
You can boost your luck by traveling in off-peak hours and days. Less popular times mean flights are quieter, therefore there are more Premium seats available - your chances suddenly peaking. Netflight suggests "to avoid flying in school holidays and Friday evenings or weekends" and to opt for "midweek flights at midday" as they are "typically quieter".
Be polite and have good manners
Seems simple but whilst politeness won't equal an instant upgrade, they never hurt. Staff should always be treated with respect, no matter whether you're pinning for that upgrade or not. That being said, Netflight agrees that "being kind can make you stand out, so a small gift like chocolates might be remembered". Either way, your flight attendants will definitely appreciate it.
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