I'm taking my entire family on a special trip, and I'd like to begin it by surprising them all with first class seats. What is the best why to get my family upgraded to first class without having to pay first-class prices?

-- Robert

Hi Robert.

When traveling with family members it is best to travel at the least busy time, or off-season. When making a reservation, make sure to ask about the availability in the first class cabin. Try to get at least one person upgraded at that time, and the other family members put on the wait list. Continue to call back and inquire about your status on the wait list. If you have not cleared the wait list by the time you have arrived at the airport, be sure to let the ticket agent know that you are traveling with your family and that you would be grateful (offer to write a letter to their supervisor praising them) if your family could join you in first class. If you're still on the wait list, go to the gate agent and cordially ask if any of your family members have cleared the wait list. This is a good time to reaffirm that you are in first class and the rest of your family is in coach and ask if there is any thing they can do. Again offer to write a nice letter. Very often the gate agent will want to assist a nice family and if room is indeed available they will place you all up in first class.

-- Joel