By Jojo The Flying Foodie, in partnership with Fora Travel
Let’s be honest: nothing feels better than walking into your hotel and hearing the words…
“We’ve upgraded your room.”
Suddenly, you’re not just a traveler — you’re a VIP.
And the best part? You don’t have to shell out extra cash to get that dreamy ocean view, suite life, or private plunge pool. You just need to know how to play the game.
Here’s my insider guide on how to get room upgrades without paying extra — straight from my travel advisor playbook.
✨ 1. Book with a Trusted Travel Advisor (Like Me)
Let’s start with the golden rule. When you book through a certified travel advisor — especially one partnered with Fora Travel — you instantly unlock preferred status with the hotel.
I can secure you perks like:
- Complimentary room upgrades (when available)
- Welcome gifts or champagne
- Daily breakfast
- Late checkout
- Resort, dining, or spa credits
All without raising the rate a cent.
📌 TL;DR: Don’t DIY when you can travel VIP.
🕐 2. Check In at the Right Time
Hotel staff typically know by mid-afternoon what inventory they have available. That’s why checking in between 3–5 PM is your sweet spot — early enough to still get options, but late enough for no-shows and cancellations to free up premium rooms.
🧠 3. Be Polite — and Ask the Right Way
Manners matter. When checking in, flash a genuine smile and try something like:
“Hi! I’m really excited about my stay. If there’s any chance of a complimentary upgrade, I’d love to take advantage if anything’s available.”
Confidence + kindness > entitlement every time.
🥇 4. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs
Even if you’re not a road warrior, joining hotel loyalty programs (like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or World of Hyatt) boosts your chances.
Why? Because hotels want to reward loyal guests — and even entry-level members often get priority on upgrades.
Bonus: Booking with me still earns you loyalty points!
📆 5. Travel Off-Peak
If you’re staying on a holiday weekend or during high season, chances of upgrades drop. But midweek travel? Shoulder season trips?
That’s when hotels have more wiggle room to surprise and delight you with a better room.
💼 6. Celebrate a Special Occasion
Honeymoon? Anniversary? Birthday trip? Tell me ahead of time.
Hotels love to make special occasions extra special — and often surprise celebratory guests with suite upgrades or in-room perks.
✈️ 7. Let Me Do the Magic For You
You don’t need to drop names or pull strings — I already have the connections. Through Fora Travel’s preferred partnerships with hundreds of hotels worldwide, I make sure you walk into your stay already tagged as a VIP.
Because life’s too short to settle for the standard room.
🧳 Ready for That Free Upgrade?
Let’s book your next trip the smart way. Whether you’re heading to Miami, Milan, or the Maldives, I’ll help you stay in style — and score those sweet upgrades.
📩 Reach out to The Hotels Guy and let’s turn your next getaway into something unforgettable.
