We Asked 4 Travel Experts the Best Way to Get a Flight Upgrade-and They All Agreed on These Top Tips

""The ideal moment to snag an upgrade is two to three weeks before your flight; that's when airlines sneak out noticeably cheaper premium tickets," Cronin said. "Do not upgrade immediately after you've booked because fares usually soften in the weeks that follow. When the departure window narrows, log in again within one to two days before departure. Airlines often slash prices a day or two before a flight to fill the remaining spots.""

""If you live in a hub city, you already know that status upgrades are basically impossible to get these days. But there's a little secret: if you're going to fly at least one week later, you can often book the flight and then, after you buy it, go back into the reservation in your app and see if it offers you an upgrade," Wilcox told T+L."

Reaching airline elite status improves position in the upgrade queue, but purchasing upgrades strategically can be more effective for average travelers. Airlines often release cheaper premium fares two to three weeks before departure. Fares commonly soften in the weeks after booking, so upgrading immediately is often costlier. Airlines may also cut upgrade prices one to two days before departure to fill remaining seats. Travelers based at hub cities face tougher odds for complimentary status upgrades. Booking a standard fare and then checking the reservation later can reveal lower-cost upgrade offers that are cheaper than buying first class outright.

Read at Travel + Leisure