Jet Set Go!

I’ve clocked up around 250,000 miles in the last couple of years. In that time I guess I’ve learned a lot about airlines, their loyalty programmes and how to survive the insanity of long-haul travel.

Now, if you want to fly first class, you should buy a fist class ticket, as that’s the sure-fire way to enjoy the unparalleled fabulousness it offers. If you can’t afford it (who can?) perhaps you’ll want to try your luck at the holy grail of air travel, here are my top 10 tips on how to secure the oh-so-desirable seat ‘upgrade’.

1. Get loyal. The first and singularly most important thing you must do is join the airline’s loyalty programme. You’re nothing to them if your name’s not down on one of their lists. Show them some love and they’ll reciprocate. Most of the operational upgrades today are completely automated, and if your name’s not down, you’re not coming in.

2. Fly American. Do the Platinum Challenge, American’s excellent fast-track status challenge: one 10k round trip and you’re there. It’s the quickest and easiest way to get status.

3. Watch what you eat. Don’t request a special meal. It’s assigned to your seat and will make it difficult to move you up the plane. So no upgrades for you veggie-boy.

4. Fly solo. If you’re traveling in a group, book separately. It’s much easier for them to upgrade individuals.

5. Wear something nice. No, not that.

6. Pay. Ask how much a DOD (day of departure) upgrade is, these can sometimes be very reasonable (sub $500).

7. Be cool. *Never* get demanding or angry/upset – ‘affable’ is the best description of winning upgrade vibe.

8. Play fare. When using miles, make sure your fare is upgradeable. Most discounted fares are not, so check.

9. Check in early. If your airline lets you check in online 24 hours before departure, do it. It’ll bump you up the list if you’ve got status. It’s easier to upgrade someone who’s guaranteed to turn up than a possible no-show.

10. Keep it up. Don’t be afraid to keep the pressure on the ground staff, as long as you’re charming and nice keep checking to see if there’s any chance of moving up the plane. Airlines often overbook and there are seat re-shuffles right up until the doors close – make sure you’re first in line to snap up an open seat.