FRANKFURT – Who doesn’t dream of flying in first class once? The luxurious seats, the excellent food, the personal service – all this makes a flight in first class an unforgettable experience. But how do you get such an upgrade without spending a fortune? Here are some insider tips that can help you make your dream come true.

1. Be flexible. If you are not bound to a specific flight date or time, you have better chances of getting an upgrade. Sometimes flights are overbooked or there are last-minute cancellations that can lead to free seats in first class. If you are willing to change or postpone your flight, you can benefit from this.

2. Be friendly. A smile and a nice word can work wonders. Be polite and courteous to the staff at the check-in counter, at the gate, and on board. If you leave a good impression, you might be lucky and be selected for an upgrade. But don’t overdo it and don’t be pushy or demanding. That could have the opposite effect.

3. Be loyal. If you fly frequently with the same airline or one of the same alliances, you collect miles and status points that can give you advantages. The higher your status is, the greater your chances of an upgrade. Also, you can sometimes redeem or bid your miles for an upgrade. Find out about the possibilities and conditions of your airline or alliance.

4. Be smart. There are some tricks and tips that can help you get an upgrade. For example, you can try to book a flight that is expected to be fully booked or has a lot of business travelers. Then the chances are higher that the economy class is overcrowded and the first class still has free seats. Or you can deliberately choose a seat by the aisle, which is often considered less comfortable. If there is an upgrade then, you have more space and peace.

5. Be prepared. Sometimes it may happen that you are offered an upgrade, but only for a fee or a surcharge. If you are prepared and willing to pay a little more, you can secure this deal. Of course, you should always compare whether the offer is worth it or whether it would be cheaper to book a ticket in first class directly.

With these tips, you may soon have the chance to enjoy an upgrade to a flight in first class. We wish you good luck and a pleasant flight!