Top five tips for getting a room upgrade

In a recent Consumer Reports survey only 28 per cent of respondents said they'd asked for an upgrade, but 78 per cent of those succeeded.

Good things come to those who ask. Up your chance of bagging that room upgrade with Megan Singleton's tips.

1. Ask!

You may not get the penthouse suite, but you might get the next grade up from what you booked.

In a recent Consumer Reports survey only 28 per cent of respondents said they'd asked for an upgrade, but 78 per cent of those succeeded. Maybe you'd like free WiFi because you're a blogger (ahem) and the astronomical charge is waived, or they include breakfast or invite you to have a drink on the house. Put your hand up. Have a go.

2. Cockroaches

This happened to me by accident. I checked into my room in New Orleans and was met by a big, dead (thank the Lord) cockroach in the doorway.

I called reception straight away and they sent someone up to move me to the corner room which was bigger and had more views.

Apparently said bug was a casualty of the spraying programme and wasn't part of a larger family.

But if something is broken or dirty, the chances of a room move or an upgrade are high. So if something's not right, make sure you tell management all about it. And always do it politely.

3. Special occasion

But make it unique. Put yourself in the shoes of the receptionist, they've heard every excited reason in the book for why your occasion is worthy of an upgrade. Weddings, anniversaries and birthdays are ho-hum.

"Celebrating a divorce" is one that doesn't come up often. Try and be creative and always be friendly. You may find fruit or wine delivered in the evening because they want you to have a great experience.

4. The room isn't ready

Another accidental upgrade I got was when we checked into our room in Nashville.

It was very early in the morning and we were lucky to be able to get in before the usual time. Pillows were piled on the chairs, the curtains were closed and I thought someone was still in there so shot downstairs for a new key - suddenly we were relocated to the corner suite. In hindsight, I suspect the room was just turned down from the regular night service.

5. Book direct

Talking over the phone, explaining your special occasion or reason for choosing them and asking if they have a special deal on a suite, etc, can often yield better results than an independent booking website. They can add a note to your file and ensure you are looked after.

For more from Megan, see bloggeratlarge.com.