We Asked 4 Travel Experts the Best Way to Get a Flight Upgrade-and They All Agreed on These Top Tips

"The ideal moment to snag an upgrade is two to three weeks before your flight; that's when airlines sneak out noticeably cheaper premium tickets,"

"Do not upgrade immediately after you've booked because fares usually soften in the weeks that follow. When the departure window narrows, log in again within one to two days before departure. Airlines often slash prices a day or two before a flight to fill the remaining spots."

"If you live in a hub city, you already know that status upgrades are basically impossible to get these days. But there's a little secret: if you're going to fly at least one week later, you can often book the flight and then, after you buy it, go back into the reservation in your app and see if it offers you an upgrade,"

"Chances are, the fare you paid plus the upgrade fee will be much less than if you had just bought the first-class ticket originally."

Elite status improves upgrade priority, but many travelers find buying smart is a more reliable path to premium seats. Airlines often release cheaper premium fares two to three weeks before departure, so avoid upgrading immediately after booking. Fares frequently soften in the weeks following purchase, and airlines commonly slash prices one to two days before a flight to fill remaining spots. Travelers based in hub cities can book then check their reservation in the airline app for upgrade offers; paying an upgrade fee or using some miles can be cheaper than purchasing first-class outright.

Read at Travel + Leisure