Hotel upgrades can transform your entire stay—from a basic standard room to a suite with a view or complimentary amenities you didn’t expect. While elite status with a hotel loyalty program often boosts your upgrade chances, it’s entirely possible to receive complimentary perks even if you don’t have status. The key lies in timing, approach, and a bit of strategy.

Book Directly with the Hotel

If you’re hoping for an upgrade, booking directly with the hotel chain is non-negotiable. Hotels prioritize guests who reserve through their own websites or apps—like Hilton, Hyatt, or Marriott—because it saves them third-party commission fees. Direct bookings are also linked to guest profiles, allowing staff to identify frequent travelers or loyal customers, even if they’re not elite tier.

Arrive at the Right Time

Timing plays a big role in upgrade availability:

• Check in later in the day (after 4 p.m.) when the front desk knows which rooms remain unbooked.

• Avoid busy holidays and events, when occupancy is high and upgrades are less likely.

• Midweek stays typically offer more flexibility than weekends at leisure properties.

While early check-in is useful for convenience, it limits upgrade potential. If you’re not in a rush, arriving later increases your odds.

Politely Ask for an Upgrade—With Specificity

It may sound obvious, but a kind, well-timed ask can go a long way. When checking in, use a friendly tone and try:

“Hi, I’m wondering if you have any complimentary upgrades available today?”

If you’re celebrating something (birthday, anniversary, business milestone), mention it—it’s not uncommon for hotels to offer upgrades as a goodwill gesture.

Be specific about what you’re hoping for: higher floor, corner room, better view. Giving staff a direction makes it easier for them to accommodate your request.

Book During Off-Peak Periods

Hotels with lower occupancy are more likely to offer upgrades just to fill better rooms. Try traveling during:

• Shoulder seasons (spring or fall)

• Midweek for leisure destinations

• Weekends for business-heavy cities

You’ll benefit from both lower rates and more flexible room availability.

Use Hotel Loyalty Programs Without Status

Even if you’re not elite, joining programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or World of Hyatt gives you access to room preferences and occasional targeted upgrades. These free memberships also make it easier for staff to identify your guest profile, especially if you stay with the same brand regularly.

Book a Slightly Higher Room Category

One trick frequent travelers use is to book one level above the base room—like a deluxe king or partial view room. This positions you closer in the upgrade hierarchy to suites or premium rooms, increasing your chances of being bumped up for free.

Final Tip: Stay Loyal, Even Without Status

Consistency matters. If a property sees your name pop up every few months, even as a non-elite guest, you’re more likely to be rewarded with better rooms. Booking direct and engaging positively with front desk staff builds rapport over time, which can lead to unexpected perks.

Closing Thoughts

While hotel upgrades are never guaranteed, a strategic approach can significantly increase your chances—no status required. Be flexible, courteous, and informed, and you may find yourself enjoying a better view or extra space at no additional cost.