A former hotel receptionist has revealed a clever strategy that could significantly increase your chances of securing a complimentary room upgrade during your next hotel stay.
The Early Bird Gets the Upgrade
According to Amy Jones, who spent several years working at a luxury hotel and spa with 35 rooms, arriving early before the official check-in time can make all the difference. While most guests assume upgrades are arranged well in advance, the reality is more flexible than many travellers realise.
"Upgrades are typically organised the night before arrival," explains Jones, "so if you're hoping to request one at the standard 3pm check-in time, there's a very slim chance anything will be available."
Why Timing Matters Most
The key advantage of early arrival lies in the hotel's operational flexibility. When you arrive before the afternoon rush, staff have more time to rearrange room allocations and accommodate special requests.
"If you turn up early and mention it's a special occasion - even if you didn't note it during booking - we've got time to shuffle some rooms around," says Jones. "It's astonishing how many guests forget to mention their stay's purpose."
Another crucial factor is that last-minute cancellations do occur, creating unexpected availability. When premium rooms become vacant on the morning of arrival, they're typically allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to early arrivals.
Additional Benefits of Early Check-in
Beyond upgrade opportunities, arriving early offers several other advantages that can enhance your hotel experience:
- Rooms are often ready before 3pm - many are waiting for their next occupants and staff are happy to accommodate early arrivals to reduce the evening check-in rush
- More flexibility to change rooms - if you're unsatisfied with your initial room assignment, staff can more easily move you before other guests arrive
- Better room selection - since hotel room photos don't always represent what you'll actually get, early arrival gives you time to assess your room and request changes if needed
Jones emphasises that upgrades aren't exclusively reserved for special occasions. "They're given out when and where they're available," she notes. "If we're in a particularly good mood and the hotel is busy, we might offer an upgrade on the spot."
The former receptionist also reveals that hotel staff sometimes make on-the-spot decisions that could work in your favour. "We might even downgrade someone else's previously upgraded room if it means getting you settled quickly," she admits, noting that guests are never informed about upgrades until arrival anyway.
While not every hotel operates identically, this insider knowledge from a luxury hotel veteran provides valuable insight into the often-mysterious world of room upgrades. The next time you're planning a hotel stay, consider adjusting your arrival time - it might just land you that coveted suite with the roll-top bath.
