A former flight attendant has revealed an essential tip for passengers hoping to land a free upgrade – and it all comes down to the language they use at check-in.
Jane Hawkes, who spent years working as cabin crew before becoming a consumer expert, has clocked up thousands of flights. In an article for Woman's Own, she shared her advice on how to enjoy luxury travel without breaking the bank.
The one word to avoid
According to Jane, subtlety is key when trying to secure a complimentary upgrade. She says passengers should never use the word "upgrade" because "it sounds desperate."
Instead, she advises mentioning to check-in staff if it's a special occasion. "They may move you to a higher class if there's space, or at least give you a complimentary drink," she explained.
She also notes that travellers flying alone are more likely to be upgraded, and that dressing in smart-casual clothes gives passengers "the edge over those in jeans."
More travel hacks
Jane also shared tips for stress-free journeys. She recommends using packing cubes to optimise luggage capacity, placing underwear inside shoes to save space, and buying toiletries in duty-free rather than packing them.
Additionally, she suggests passengers carry their own anti-bacterial wipes, pointing out that tray tables are especially "germ-ridden."
Hygiene warnings
Jane says tray tables frequently don't receive a proper clean between flights, making them "more germ-ridden than the toilets." She even recalls seeing a passenger changing a baby's nappy directly on a tray table while airborne.
Seatback pockets are also prone to harbouring germs. Jane describes them as "tricky to clean" and notes they often contain leftovers such as half-eaten food, sick bags, and used tissues left by previous passengers.
For those who prioritise hygiene, Jane recommends booking the earliest flight of the day, as the aircraft is thoroughly cleaned overnight.