How to Get Free Upgrades at U.S. Hotels (Without Being a Celebrity or a Karen)

Want a better hotel room without paying more? It's possible. Here's how to get a free upgrade at U.S. hotels — no elite status or drama required.

1. Join the Loyalty Program

Sign up for:
- Hilton Honors
- Marriott Bonvoy
- IHG One Rewards
- World of Hyatt
- Wyndham Rewards

Even basic members get access to perks like upgrades (when available) and early check-in.

2. Book Directly With the Hotel

Avoid third-party sites. Booking direct:
- Makes you eligible for upgrades
- Ensures loyalty benefits are applied
- Makes it easier to modify or request things

3. Time Your Check-In Right

Aim for:
- Mid-afternoon (3–4 PM)
- Midweek stays
- Shoulder season or off-peak travel

Fewer guests = more chances at better rooms.

4. Ask — Nicely

Polite, specific, and human works:
- “Any complimentary upgrades available?”
- “Would love a high floor or quiet room if possible.”

Avoid being demanding or entitled.

5. Celebrate Something

Mention special occasions:
- Anniversary
- Birthday
- First trip since having kids

Hotels love creating positive guest experiences when they can.

6. Use the Right Credit Cards

Cards that offer hotel status:
- Amex Platinum (Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold)
- Hilton Honors Surpass (Gold)
- Chase World of Hyatt (Discoverist)

Even mid-tier status helps trigger upgrade eligibility.

7. Email Ahead of Time

Sample message:
- Subject: Upgrade Request – Excited Guest
- “Hi, looking forward to my visit. If there's room for a complimentary upgrade, I'd be so grateful.”

Short, kind, and early.

8. Travel Off-Peak

Staying Sunday–Tuesday is best. Avoid:
- Convention weeks
- Local festivals
- Peak holidays

Hotels are more generous when occupancy is low.

9. Mention Previous Stays

If you’ve stayed before or left a review, say so:
- “I loved my last stay and couldn’t wait to come back.”

It builds trust and guest rapport.

10. Final Tip

You don’t have to be rich or famous. Just play the game right:
- Join the program
- Book direct
- Ask with confidence
- Be kind

Sometimes, an upgrade is just one smile away.