How to Score a Complimentary Room Upgrade in Las Vegas

Choose the right time to visit Vegas. The timing of your trip can influence your chances of snagging a free upgrade. However, travel experts have mixed opinions on what the 'perfect time' to visit actually is.

• Book during slower seasons. Some experts say that booking during off-peak times, like weekends when fewer business travelers are around, increases your chances of getting a complimentary upgrade. Hotels may have more rooms available for you to choose from.
• Book during major events or conferences. Other experts believe that you'll have a higher likelihood of getting upgraded when the hotel is near full capacity. This typically happens during large conferences or events, when hotels might offer you a free upgrade to free up basic rooms for other guests attending the event.

Pick the right hotel. Some hotels and casinos in Vegas are more inclined to offer free upgrades than others. Before you finalize your booking, do a quick search to find out which properties are most likely to provide you with a room upgrade. You could even reach out to friends, family, or your social media contacts for recommendations.

• Newer hotels might be more willing to upgrade your room since they’re eager to get positive reviews.

Book directly with the hotel. Hotel staff can tell if you’ve booked through a third-party site. While these platforms might offer lower rates, they can also limit your chances of securing a free upgrade, as you're likely to get a standard room. Booking directly with the hotel shows you're a valued guest, making the upgrade process smoother.

• If you find a better rate on a third-party website, consider calling the hotel and asking if they’ll honor it directly.

Book a higher-tier room. To increase your chances of receiving a free upgrade, consider spending a bit more when making your reservation. By choosing a mid-range room instead of the most basic option, you’re signaling that you’re willing to invest more in your stay. Hotels view these guests as more valuable, so they’re more likely to accommodate upgrade requests.

Use the right credit card for payment. Certain credit cards, like American Express, can automatically make you eligible for a free upgrade. This benefit is usually reserved for platinum or centurion cardholders. However, if you hold a different card, it’s still worth asking if you qualify for an upgrade.

• If you’re unsure about the benefits associated with your credit card, give the company a call, search online, or review the information included in your welcome packet.

Check in later in the day. Hotels typically have a clearer picture of their room availability as the day progresses, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. Checking in at this time increases your chances of benefiting from this insight, as the hotel staff will have a better idea of their occupancy levels for the night and the days ahead.

Prepare your tip beforehand. Before you approach the front desk, discreetly prepare your tip. Neatly fold your bill in half and place it between your ID and credit card.

• The amount you tip is up to you, but many people choose to give at least a twenty-dollar bill.

Observe the front desk staff. Upon arrival, take a moment to observe the hotel clerks. Look for one who appears confident and capable, yet not in charge of the desk. Once you’ve identified the clerk you’d like to assist you, approach them directly.

• If the clerk you’ve chosen is unavailable, let another guest go ahead of you.
• Avoid making your request while other guests are present.

Make your request clear. When asking for an upgrade, be specific and use the word 'complimentary.' If you don’t ask for what you want, you might just end up with a room on a higher floor; if you don’t mention 'complimentary,' the clerk might assume you’re willing to pay.

• After stating your name, smile and slide your credit card and tip across the counter.
• Let the clerk know that you’re particularly interested in a specific suite.
• Ask if there are any available 'complimentary upgrades.'

Show gratitude to the clerk. Regardless of the outcome, always remain polite and respectful. If the clerk upgrades your room, express your gratitude warmly. If the upgrade doesn’t happen, don’t complain; instead, thank them for their effort and time.

• If the clerk is able to upgrade you, they will do so willingly.
• If no upgrade is possible, the clerk should return your tip. You can either take back the money or leave it as a gesture of goodwill.
• Hotels are more likely to assist and reward courteous, generous guests. From your first interaction with the hotel staff to your check-out, be respectful to everyone—whether it’s the bellboy or the manager. Any staff member could help facilitate your complimentary upgrade.

Simply ask for a free upgrade. Instead of subtly tipping the clerk, you can take a more direct approach and ask for a complimentary upgrade. This involves minimal risk but could lead to great rewards. When checking in, politely ask if there are any free upgrades available. If so, the clerk may be willing to grant your request. If not, they might still move you to a similar room with a better view or in a more desirable location.

• If there are no free upgrades available, inquire about the cost of a room upgrade. The clerk may offer a discounted price if they know you're willing to pay for the upgrade.
• Avoid making this request when other guests are present.

Use a special occasion to your advantage. Hotels love to make guests feel special, especially when they’re celebrating an important event. Special occasions are the perfect time to score a little extra treatment, as the hotel will likely go the extra mile to make your stay memorable.

• When you book your room, mention that you’re celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary, birthday, or honeymoon.
• At check-in, casually remind the clerk that you’re celebrating a special event.
• The hotel may decide to upgrade your room or offer you a delightful surprise, like a bottle of champagne or chocolates.

Build loyalty with the hotel chain. Regular guests often receive VIP treatment. By joining a hotel’s loyalty program, you can stand out as a repeat guest while earning reward points that may eventually lead to a free room upgrade or even a free stay.

• If you're traveling as a couple, letting the hotel know it’s your honeymoon might increase your chances of a special upgrade.
• Be kind. Being nice goes a long way.
• Be a frequent guest. If you visit Vegas often, make one hotel your go-to place. Be polite and generous with tips each time you stay, and the staff will likely return the favor.

• If you’re hoping to gamble your way into a room upgrade, make sure to evaluate your finances first. While the upgrade may seem 'free,' if you end up losing $300 at the craps table, you might wish you had just paid for the suite and spent your time lounging by the pool instead.