Scoring an upgrade at a hotel can be a delightful surprise that enhances your overall experience. While there’s no guaranteed way to secure an upgrade, here are some strategies that may increase your chances:
- Join a Loyalty Program: Joining a hotel’s loyalty program can significantly improve your chances of scoring an upgrade. Hotels often prioritize upgrading their loyal members as a way of showing appreciation for their repeat business. Make sure to provide your loyalty number when making a reservation, and check if there are any elite status benefits or perks associated with your membership.
- Travel during Off-Peak Times: Hotels are more likely to have extra availability and vacant rooms during off-peak periods. When the hotel isn’t fully booked, the likelihood of an upgrade increases. Consider traveling during weekdays, shoulder seasons, or less popular times, and mention your flexibility for a potential upgrade during check-in.
- Be Polite and Friendly: Treat the hotel staff with kindness and respect. A positive and friendly demeanor often goes a long way in building rapport and may increase the chances of being considered for an upgrade. Engaging in friendly conversation or expressing your excitement about your stay can leave a positive impression.
- Special Occasions and Celebrations: If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon, let the hotel know during the reservation process or upon arrival. Hotels often want to enhance special moments for their guests and might be more inclined to offer an upgrade or additional amenities to make your celebration memorable.
- Tip Generously: While it’s not a guaranteed method, discreetly offering a tip to the front desk staff during check-in may increase your chances of an upgrade. It’s important to approach this with tact and not place a direct expectation on the tip resulting in an upgrade. Use your judgment and consider tipping as a gesture of gratitude for excellent service.
- Build a Relationship: If you frequently stay at a particular hotel, try building a relationship with the staff or the hotel’s management. Over time, they may recognize you as a valuable guest and be more likely to offer upgrades or personalized benefits as a token of appreciation.
- Mention Any Issues or Discrepancies: If you encounter any issues during your stay, such as a problem with your room or amenities, politely bring them to the attention of the staff. In some cases, the hotel may proactively offer an upgrade or compensation to address the situation and ensure your satisfaction.
Remember, upgrading a guest depends on various factors, including hotel occupancy, availability, and individual hotel policies or discretion. While employing these strategies might increase your chances, it’s essential to manage your expectations and appreciate your stay regardless of receiving an upgrade.