How to Get a Free Upgrade to First Class on United
For many travelers, flying first class is a dream. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy spacious seats, gourmet meals, and attentive service? But let’s face it, first-class tickets can be prohibitively expensive.
However, there are ways to get a free upgrade to first class on United Airlines, even if you’re not a high-status frequent flyer. Here are a few tips:
1. Be a United MileagePlus Member
The first step to getting a free upgrade on United is to be a United MileagePlus member. MileagePlus is United’s frequent flyer program, and members earn miles for every flight they take. These miles can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including upgrades.
To become a MileagePlus member, simply sign up online or at the airport. It’s free to join, and you’ll immediately start earning miles.
2. Check in Early
One of the best ways to get a free upgrade is to check in early for your flight. United typically upgrades passengers on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you check in, the better your chances of getting an upgrade.
If you’re checking in online, you can usually check in 24 hours before your flight. If you’re checking in at the airport, you can usually check in 3 hours before your flight.
3. Dress Nicely
First impressions matter, so if you want to get a free upgrade, dress nicely when you check in. This doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit or a dress, but you should at least look presentable.
4. Be Polite and Courteous
The gate agents who decide who gets upgraded are human beings, so it’s important to be polite and courteous when you’re interacting with them. Be friendly, smile, and make eye contact. If you’re lucky, they’ll be more likely to give you an upgrade.
5. Ask for an Upgrade
If you’ve followed all of the tips above and you’re still not upgraded, don’t be afraid to ask. Simply approach the gate agent and politely ask if there are any upgrades available. Sometimes, the gate agent will be able to accommodate you, even if there are no upgrades available on the manifest.
6. Use Your Miles
If you have enough United MileagePlus miles, you can use them to upgrade your seat. The number of miles required for an upgrade varies depending on the route and the time of year. To check the number of miles required for your flight, visit the United website or call United customer service.
7. Get a Credit Card
There are a number of credit cards that offer perks for United MileagePlus members. Some of these cards offer bonus miles for every dollar spent on United flights. These bonus miles can be used to upgrade your seat.
8. Be Patient
Getting a free upgrade on United can take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get upgraded right away. Just keep following the tips above and eventually you’ll be successful.
Here are a few additional tips that may help you get a free upgrade to first class on United:
- Book your flight during off-peak times.
- Travel on a weekday instead of a weekend.
- Fly on a smaller aircraft.
- Be flexible with your travel dates and times.
- Be willing to take a less desirable seat.
FAQs
- What are the chances of getting a free upgrade to first class on United?
The chances of getting a free upgrade to first class on United vary depending on a number of factors, including your status as a MileagePlus member, the route you’re flying, and the time of year. However, by following the tips above, you can increase your chances of getting upgraded.
- Do I have to be a MileagePlus member to get a free upgrade to first class on United?
No, you do not have to be a MileagePlus member to get a free upgrade to first class on United. However, MileagePlus members are more likely to get upgraded than non-members.
- Can I use my miles to upgrade my seat on United?
Yes, you can use your United MileagePlus miles to upgrade your seat. The number of miles required for an upgrade varies depending on the route and the time of year.
- What are the best credit cards for getting free upgrades on United?
There are a number of credit cards that offer perks for United MileagePlus members. Some of the best cards for getting free upgrades include the United MileagePlus Explorer Card, the United MileagePlus Business Card, and the United MileagePlus Club Card.
- What are some other ways to get a free upgrade to first class on United?
In addition to the tips listed above, there are a few other ways to get a free upgrade to first class on United. These include:
- Becoming a United Global Services member
- Flying on a United partner airline
- Getting a corporate discount
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