5 airline upgrades and free perks you never knew existed; Make a list

Free airline upgrades and perks can make flying economy a much more enjoyable experience. While it may not offer the luxurious comfort of business class, there are plenty of strategies to improve your trip. Airlines often have hidden benefits that can take your flight to the next level without incurring any additional costs. With a little creativity and ingenuity, you can make your next travel experience significantly more enjoyable.

5 airline upgrades and free perks you never knew existed; Make a list

1. Seat upgrades Securing an upgrade to business class often depends on a mix of luck and strategy. If you book directly through the airline’s website, rather than using third-party services, you increase your chances. Please inquire about possible upgrades upon check-in; many last-minute offers are at discounted rates or even free if there is availability. Dressing well and traveling alone can further increase your chances. Additionally, consider credit cards with travel benefits, such as American Express or HDFC, which sometimes offer free upgrades or priority access.

2. Free amenities

Gaining access to first-class perks while in economy depends on knowing what to request. Many airlines offer items typically reserved for premium passengers, such as earplugs, blankets and pillows, if you just ask. Because these supplies are limited, they are not automatically offered, but a polite request can yield positive results. Dressing a little more formally can also increase your chances of an upgrade, and striking up a friendly conversation with the crew can result in free drinks.

3. Change your flight for a lower fare

To find a cheaper fare for the same flight, timing is crucial. Airlines regularly adjust their prices based on demand, so keep an eye on fare changes after booking. If you notice a price drop, you may be able to cancel and rebook at the lower rate. Many airlines allow free cancellations or changes within the first 24 hours. Using tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to monitor price fluctuations can lead to significant savings without the hassle of switching flights.

4. Free hotel stays

Getting a free hotel stay through an airline can be a huge relief during long layovers or flight delays. Many airlines, especially on international routes, offer complimentary hotel accommodations for layovers of more than eight hours when previous connections are unavailable. If your flight is delayed for reasons within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for meal vouchers, hotel stays or other compensation. If you receive more than 24 hours’ notice of a delay, or if it lasts longer than 24 hours (or six hours for night flights), you are eligible for a free stay. Keep in mind that the airline selects the hotel, so it’s wise to check their customer service policies and ask at the desk about specific accommodations.

5. Dealing with lost or delayed baggage

If you encounter lost or damaged luggage at the airport, don’t panic; compensation is usually within reach. Please report the problem immediately to the airline’s baggage service desk before leaving the airport. With Air India, if you do not receive your checked baggage within 24 hours of arriving at a foreign destination and do not have access to the necessary clothing, you are entitled to a one-off interim fee. The same rule applies to domestic flights, where checked baggage delays of more than 24 hours allow these interim costs to be claimed. Most airlines have specific compensation policies that detail your eligibility for claims. If your luggage is damaged, request a damage report and take photos to document its condition.