A flight attendant has shared a simple trick that passengers can use to try and secure a free upgrade when they’re flying – and all it takes is five minutes in a shop before your flight
Many travellers fantasise about scoring an upgrade when they fly, banking on their charming smile to completely charm the cabin crew into getting some sneaky extras.
However, once they’re seated in their assigned spot, their grin has vanished, and they’re left pondering how to actually secure a more luxurious and spacious seat. However, according to one flight attendant, getting an upgrade is not entirely out of reach.
Cierra Mistt has taken to TikTok to share a trick that has reportedly led to numerous upgrades in the past. She suggested this tip is for “those who want special treatment on their flights” – which, let’s be honest, isn’t that all of us?
Cierra cautioned against bringing “bring gift cards” on flights, displaying packages that passengers have previously gifted to cabin crew filled with coffee shop gift cards, including a chapstick and hand cream, accompanied by a handwritten note saying “coffee on me”.
“So the majority of the time this happens [gift cards are given out], the passengers don’t know how many crew are going to be on that flight, meaning the majority of the time, at least one person gets left out”, she revealed – which doesn’t leave a favourable impression for the individual who fails to receive a gift card, but is still working on the flight.
But fear not, because Cierra has divulged “what you’re gonna do instead” of offering gift cards to the staff. She suggested that when you’re on the way to the airport, you should “stop at a store” and “pick out a bag of your favourite candy”.
Then, “pack it into your carry on, and as you’re walking onto the flight make sure you hand it to the flight attendant at the very beginning”, she advised. She went on to say: “We’re always in constant communication with the pilots and the flight attendants, so everyone onboard will know who you are and what you did for us”.
But what could be the potential perks of going the extra mile for your pilot and flight attendant? Cierra revealed that you might bag extra points or travel miles, a complimentary upgrade, or even free snacks and drinks throughout your flight.
In the comments section, one person wrote: “I have given bags of chocolates and only gotten a thank you”. Another responded: “I would imagine it’s not a guarantee you’d benefit – so just enjoy that you did something nice and any benefits is a bonus”.
One bloke questioned: “If you hand candy to an attendant at plane entry, how do they know where you’re sitting”. Someone cheekily retorted: “It’s a tight metal tube in the sky. You’re defo findable”.
