Ask nicely You won't know unless you ask, and that can also apply to scoring an upgrade. Some seasoned travelers have gotten upgraded during check-in at the airport or at their gate. There's no easy way to do this and no guarantee it'll work.

While it is technically possible to get an upgrade at the gate, the "golden era" of getting a free bump to First Class just by dressing well is largely over. Today, upgrades are governed by sophisticated airline algorithms and loyalty programs. Most upgrades are processed automatically 24 to 72 hours before the flight based on frequent flyer status. At the gate, the agent is usually working through a standby and upgrade list displayed on the monitors. If there are still empty premium seats, the agent will move down this list. Your best chance for a gate upgrade is to check the airline app for "Last Minute Upgrades," which are paid upgrades offered at a steep discount just before boarding. Occasionally, if a flight is "oversold" in Economy, an agent may move a high-status passenger to Business Class to make room for others, but this is rare. If you are looking for a complimentary upgrade, your only real hope is an "operational necessity" (OP-UP) or if you are a top-tier elite member and the computer identifies a vacancy. Asking politely never hurts, but don't expect a freebie without a status or a credit card.