44 Flight Booking Myths That Are Actually Wasting You Money

Myth 33: Seat Upgrades Only Happen at the Gate

Hoping to score a seat upgrade by sweet-talking the gate agent? While last-minute upgrades at the gate do happen occasionally, the vast majority are decided long before you even reach the airport. Airlines prioritize elite loyalty members first when it comes to complimentary or discounted upgrades—and many fill upgraded seats during the check-in window or via proactive email offers weeks in advance. Some airlines now allow travelers to bid for an upgrade, entering a silent auction-style system where your offer competes against others. Others offer fixed-price upgrade deals in your account dashboard or app if seats remain unsold. If you really want that extra legroom or a shot at business class, start monitoring your reservation early and often. Sign up for alerts, check the seat map regularly, and be ready to pounce when an offer appears. Waiting until the gate often means you’re last in line, behind a queue of elite members, high-spenders, and proactive travelers who already claimed the best seats in the cabin.