Everyone loves a free hotel upgrade—whether it’s a room with a better view, extra space, or complimentary amenities. While upgrades aren’t guaranteed, they’re more common than you might think, especially when you approach the process strategically and respectfully.

Here are proven ways to increase your chances of receiving a free hotel upgrade, no awkward requests or gimmicks required.

Join the hotel’s loyalty program—before you book

Loyalty programs like Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy offer complimentary upgrades to elite members based on availability. Even entry-level members sometimes get small perks like higher-floor rooms or early check-in.

Signing up is free, and even a few stays per year can push you into a tier that qualifies for upgrades. If you have a co-branded credit card (like a Hilton Amex or Marriott Boundless), you may automatically start with elite status.

Book directly through the hotel’s website

Hotels are more likely to reward direct bookings with upgrades since they don’t have to pay third-party commissions. Booking through the official hotel site or app ensures your stay is eligible for elite credit, upgrade consideration, and member-only rates.

Third-party bookings (like Expedia or Priceline) are rarely eligible for upgrades—even if you ask.

Travel during off-peak periods

Hotels are more flexible when they aren’t fully booked. You’re more likely to receive a free upgrade during shoulder seasons, mid-week stays, or in business-heavy areas during weekends when occupancy is lower.

Avoid high-demand periods like holidays, major events, or peak vacation times if your goal is to get bumped up.

Check in later in the day

Front desk agents often know by late afternoon which rooms will go unused. Checking in around 4–6 p.m. (but before the front desk gets swamped) can give staff more visibility into available inventory, making it easier to offer a complimentary upgrade without risking an overbooking.

Be polite, professional, and direct

You don’t need to beg for an upgrade—just ask respectfully and optimistically. Here’s an example:

“Hi, I’m really looking forward to my stay. If there’s any chance of a complimentary upgrade today, I’d really appreciate it—but I totally understand if not.”

This kind of approach signals appreciation without entitlement. Front desk agents remember polite guests—and often go out of their way to help them.

Celebrate something (if it’s real)

If you’re traveling for a honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary, mention it—especially in the booking notes. Many hotels enjoy helping guests mark special occasions, and it often increases your chance of an upgrade, welcome gift, or even a personalized note.

Be honest—fabricating milestones for perks is frowned upon and often transparent.

Use your credit card perks

Some premium travel credit cards include upgrade benefits when booking through their concierge or portal. For example:

• American Express Platinum: Complimentary upgrades with Fine Hotels + Resorts
• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Benefits through the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection

These cards often bundle late checkout, breakfast, and upgrade eligibility into one package.

Final thoughts

Hotel upgrades aren’t reserved for high rollers. With the right mix of loyalty status, good timing, and polite communication, even occasional travelers can land a better room at no extra cost. Book direct, join the loyalty program, and treat front desk staff like the humans they are—sometimes that’s all it takes to go from standard to suite.