Speaking on The Martin Lewis Podcast, the founder of MoneySavingExpert answered a question many travellers ask: how do some people end up in business class without paying for it?
While some listeners are sharing stories of surprise upgrades, Martin is making it clear the odds are still low, saying his tips only improve your chances “from a soupçon to a tad”.
The simple trick many travellers miss
One of the easiest ways to try for an upgrade is asking at the airport.
Martin is urging passengers to check at the desk for last-minute paid upgrades, which can sometimes be far cheaper than booking in advance.
He shares how his wife was offered an upgrade from economy for around $140 on a US flight, far less than the usual cost.
Loyalty can make a difference
Frequent flyers are more likely to be moved up, he says: “the most important ways you’re going to get yourself an upgrade is by being a frequent flyer.”
Airlines often prioritise passengers with status in loyalty schemes, meaning regular travellers stand a better chance if seats become available.
Even lower-tier members can benefit if there is a problem or spare capacity.
When things go wrong, it can work in your favour
Passengers are sometimes upgraded after issues like:
- seat problems
- meal errors
- booking mistakes
Martin says the key is to stay calm and polite while raising the issue, as aggressive complaints are less likely to be rewarded.
If economy is full and higher cabins have space, airlines may start offering upgrades.
Sometimes they try to sell upgrades first, but if seats remain empty, passengers can be moved for free.
Martin warns this is a gamble and nothing is guaranteed.
Timing your check-in matters
There is some evidence that checking in very early or very late can increase your chances.
Late check-in can mean staff already know where spare seats are, while early check-in can put you first in line if changes happen.
Do special occasions help?
Mentioning birthdays, honeymoons or anniversaries can sometimes make a difference.
Martin also says titles like doctor or professor may help in close decisions, though the impact is small.
Despite the stories, free upgrades remain rare
Travel experts like Ski Vertigo say these tactics can help, but they are never reliable.
Martin’s advice is simple: always expect to fly in the seat you paid for and treat any upgrade as a bonus.
For travellers wanting a guaranteed upgrade experience, package deals can sometimes offer better value.
By bundling flights and hotels, companies can secure lower prices on premium cabins, avoiding the uncertainty of airport upgrades.
New EU border rules could catch travellers out
Alongside upgrade tips, British holidaymakers are also being warned to prepare for new airport checks across Europe.
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is now in force across the Schengen area, replacing passport stamps with digital records for UK travellers.
According to Kadmos Immigration, this means:
- biometric checks like fingerprints and facial scans at borders
- potentially longer queues at airports
- stricter passport validity checks
Helena Sheizon warned: “The biggest risk for families this summer is assuming nothing has changed. If your passport is not valid or you have not allowed enough time, your holiday can be disrupted before it has even started.”
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Travellers are being urged to check:
- their passport was issued within the last 10 years
- it is valid for at least three months after travel
- they allow extra time at the airport
There is also confusion around ETIAS, the upcoming EU travel authorisation system, which has not yet launched. Experts warn travellers not to pay for unofficial websites claiming to sell it early.
