Hotel staff reveal insider secrets to free perks and upgrades

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Getting bumped up to a corner suite or oceanview room without paying extra isn’t just luck, it’s strategy. With these tips from hotel insiders, savvy travellers can significantly boost their upgrade odds. But beware — one misstep with the front desk staff could send you straight to that windowless room next to the ice machine. 

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Loyalty pays off

By far the easiest, most successful way to snag a room upgrade is by signing up for a hotel’s loyalty program and racking up points based on how often you frequent the brand’s properties. 

“You’re much more likely to receive a room upgrade if you’re a loyalty member than not,” admitted Semir Habib, director of the front office at Sheraton Centre Toronto. 

The perks go beyond upgrades, too. “Many guests don’t realize the benefits afforded to them for just being a member of a hotel’s loyalty program. For example, Marriott Bonvoy members have access to exclusive member rates, free breakfast, late checkout, mobile check-in, free in-room Wi-Fi, room upgrades and more,” he noted. 

Some programs guarantee upgrades—no guesswork required. If you’re a member of Brilliant by Langham, you’ll automatically receive a room upgrade. 

“This helps us to gain loyalty,” said Tess Clarke, director of rooms at the Chelsea Hotel in Toronto, which is owned by Langham Hospitality Group.

“There are benefits related to the number of stays. For example, the initial tier offers five per cent off food and beverage at the Chelsea Hotel. Like other loyalty programs, the more you stay, the more benefits you receive,” she shared. 

Online booking tools also offer perks

Can’t commit to one hotel brand? No problem! Online travel platforms have your back, too. It’s free to join Booking.com’s Genius program, which delivers 10 to 20 per cent discounts on stays, 10 to 15 per cent off car rentals, free room upgrades (when available), complimentary breakfasts and priority customer service support. 

“Unlike typical hotel programs, the Genius loyalty program works across a wide range of brands and destinations. And it’s not just for stays. Genius benefits extend to flights, rental cars, attractions and airport rides, so travellers can unlock value throughout their entire journey,” said Daniela Musse, area manager of Booking.com Canada.

Indicate special occasions ASAP

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon? Spill the beans when you book. Your best shot at an upgrade, in-room champagne or other VIP treatment is letting the property know as soon as possible — even if you booked through a third-party site. 

Wait until check-in and you might be out of luck. By then, rooms are often assigned and shuffling guests around could be beyond the front desk agent’s control. The early bird gets the suite upgrade, as they say. 

Hotels genuinely want to make special occasions memorable. “When guests share the reason for their stay, such asa promotion or birthday, we offer a special welcome that could range from a handwritten note to a little something to eat or drink. Sometimes, pending on availability, we can upgrade the guest,” said Sarah Côté, general manager of Le Germain Hotel in Quebec City.

Upgrades come in many forms

Asking for an upgrade isn’t just about room size. Many brands offer several room categories, such as Sheraton’s Club Lounge or the M Club at Marriott properties, and these perks can be even more valuable than extra square footage. 

“While the room itself may not change, the upgrade to this room category is significant as it offers things like complimentary breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, snacks and beverages throughout the day,” noted Habib. 

Don’t overlook location upgrades either. A higher floor, ocean view or corner room can transform your stay. “Sometimes if rooms are available in a different room category, they’ll upgrade you for free,” shared Habib.

Go big

Boutique hotels may be Instagram-worthy, but when it comes to upgrades, size matters. The larger the property, the better your odds. Take Toronto’s Chelsea Hotel with a whopping 1,590 guest rooms—that’s a lot of inventory to work with. 

“If a guest is with their family, we always offer an upgrade to make their stay more comfortable, and this could include connecting rooms,” said Clarke.

Book during off-peak times

Fewer guests equal better upgrade odds. Mid-week and off-season stays increase your chances since hotels have more wiggle room. Business hotels packed Monday to Thursday might roll out the red carpet on weekends, while resort properties could be your oyster during shoulder seasons. 

Remember, peak season isn’t universal. January to April is considered off-season in Fiji, summer isn’t prime time in the Caribbean and fall sees fewer visitors in Bermuda. One traveller’s low season is your upgrade jackpot.

Time of day matters

Hotels are most generous with upgrades in the late afternoon, typically after 4 p.m., when they know who’s checked in and what’s still available. Arrive too early and your choices are limited. Show up too late, and the best rooms may already be occupied.

Tip the right person, the right way

In some destinations (especially the U.S.), a discreet $20 handshake at the front desk is alive and well. The famous “Las Vegas sandwich” involves folding a $20 or $50 bill between your ID and credit card when checking in. 

In Canada, this approach can be hit or miss, but tipping the bellhop, concierge or housekeeping staff early (we’re talking day one) can create goodwill that ripples back in your favour.

Sweet-talk with specifics 

Don’t just ask for an upgrade. Get tactical. Request “corner rooms,” “high floors,” “quiet wings” or “rooms with views.” You might not score a suite, but asking can help you dodge that standard room parked beside the elevator or worse, the ice machine. 

If you’d like extra space, ask about accessible rooms. They’re often roomier than standard accommodations. Those with mobility needs book these well in advance, but last-minute availability isn’t uncommon. Mention your preferences when booking and again at check-in for maximum impact.

Don’t sabotage your chances

If you want VIP treatment, you need to look and act the part. Designer threads aren’t required but rolling up dishevelled or hangry won’t inspire front desk generosity. A tidy appearance, genuine smile and basic courtesy work wonders. 

“A guest can unknowingly sabotage their chances of getting an upgrade based solely on their treatment of the guest services agent — being rude and demanding or raising their voice. The cardinal rule applies here. Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself,” advised Clarke. 

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