SUITE DEAL
Is offering to PAY the simple trick to getting free hotel upgrades?
GETTING a free hotel upgrade might seem like something that only happens to other people, but if you know the right tips and tricks, scoring a posher room could be easier than you think.
One of the most unexpected one might be to offer to pay for an upgrade - but you have to ask the right member of staff.
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A frequent traveller told that the best person to speak to is the concierge rather than the front desk.
But don't just ask for a freebie, unless you know them really well.
Instead, "asking to pay for an upgrade may well get you bumped up for free out of goodwill".
By starting the conversation, you can find out what your options are and that could help you negotiate.
But it's helpful to know some of the other tricks you could use.
Comparison site, did some investigating with a series of big name hotels and came up with ten of the best hacks for getting a better room.
Get with the program
Many hotel chains offer membership programs that provide benefits for frequent stays, including upgrades.
Choose the right credit card
Certain hotels offer credit cards that automatically make you eligible for an upgrade.
For example Hilton’s Citi Hilton HHonors Reserve card automatically grants you gold status, as does the Hyatt Credit Card.
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Tell staff that it’s a special occasion
When checking in, sneakily drop in that you’re celebrating something, whether it's a birthday or an engagement.
Even if you don’t score that upgrade, you might get a free bottle of champagne out of it.
Just chance it and ask
Just be nice about. The worst they can do is say no, and the hotel staff will appreciate that you are being polite about it.
But don’t kick up a fuss if they say no and don’t ask for the upgrade when other guests are around.
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Pay them a compliment
Be polite and leave good feedback for the staff, or by sharing your love for the hotel on social media.
The hotel might remember the praise and if you return, they may upgrade you automatically because of it.
Stay at a new hotel
New hotels are yet to build reviews and prove that they are worth staying in.
This means they may be more likely to yield to an upgrade request to please you, especially if they have rooms to spare.
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Book directly through the hotel
Websites like Expedia or Booking.com often offer cheaper rates, but booking through these sites means the hotel is paying them a commission and they don't like it.
The hotel also doesn’t receive your personal details prior to your arrival.
By booking directly through the hotel, you’re showing more loyalty to the brand, which can increase your chances of an upgrade.
Check in later
The afternoon to early evening is a non-peak time at the check-in desk, meaning they won’t be rushed when taking care of you.
It also means the staff will have better knowledge of what rooms are available for the evening.
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One night only
Shorter stays or one night bookings are more likely to get an upgrade as premium rooms may be filled the following days or have the potential to be filled.
Complain — but only if it’s justified
If there’s something wrong with your room, go back to the check-in counter and let them know.
The staff want you to have a good stay, so if a plug isn’t working or the toilet doesn’t flush properly, bring it up.
They would much rather fix the problem on the spot then receive a negative review later, and if it can’t be fixed, they’ll likely move you to another room, hopefully a posher one.
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A cheeky hotel guest said he would make a list of demands during the booking and then complain late at night if they're not met to get an upgrade.
Sun Online Travel previously revealed how you could be in with a better chance of an upgrade if you tip the front desk.
But make sure you know the local laws and customs around this, as it could be bad etiquette or even fall foul of bribery laws.
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