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

9. Check If Your Flight Has a “Bid for Upgrade” Option

Many airlines now offer passengers the opportunity to bid on upgrades, allowing economy travelers to access premium seats at a fraction of the cost. After booking, checking your airline’s website or email notifications can reveal whether your flight offers this feature. Bidding the lowest possible amount can sometimes be enough to secure an upgrade, as airlines would rather sell an unsold premium seat at a discount than let it go empty. This is a low-risk strategy that could result in a major travel upgrade with minimal additional cost. Pro Tip: Even if you don’t win the bid, some airlines upgrade unsuccessful bidders for free if seats remain empty.