Clever Ways to Score a Free Seat Upgrade on Your Next Flight

6. Be the Last to Board (Sometimes)

Waiting until the last minute to board can sometimes work in your favor if there are open seats in premium cabins. This strategy is most effective on lightly booked flights where airlines haven’t sold all business or first-class seats and may be looking to balance the cabin. Keeping an eye on the boarding process and checking if first class still has open seats as the final call is made can increase your chances. Politely asking the gate agent about potential upgrades at this stage may lead to a move forward, as they might prefer to fill those seats rather than leave them empty. Pro Tip:This works best outside peak travel seasons when premium seats go unsold.