How to Score Room Upgrades in Las Vegas: Insider Tips for a Better Stay
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling for business, or just want to enjoy a more comfortable room, a room upgrade can make your Vegas trip even better. The best part? You don’t always have to pay extra for it.
Book Directly with the Hotel
When booking a room, skip third-party sites and book directly through the hotels website or reservation line. Hotels prioritize guests who book direct because they don’t have to pay commission fees to booking platforms. Plus, many hotels offer exclusive deals or complimentary upgrades for direct bookings.
Pro Tip: Sign up for the hotels loyalty program (even if it’s free) before booking. Members often receive perks like better room assignments or free upgrades.
Check In at the Right Time
Timing matters when asking for an upgrade. The best time to check in for an upgrade is typically:
Midweek (Tuesday - Thursday): Hotels are less busy compared to weekends.
Late Afternoon or Early Evening: By this time, front desk agents have a better idea of which rooms are available for the night.
After a Major Event or Convention: If a big event just ended, high-tier rooms might be freed up.
Avoid checking in too early, as most premium rooms may not yet be available for upgrades.
Use the $20 Trick (or More!)
The famous $20 trick is a Vegas classic. Here’s how it works:
1. Place a $20 bill between your ID and credit card when checking in.
2. Politely ask, are there any complimentary upgrades available?
3. The front desk agent will check availability and let you know if they can offer anything extra.
This trick often works at mid-tier and luxury hotels, but it depends on availability and the agent helping you. If you’re staying at a high-end resort, you may want to try a $50 or $100 bill for better chances.
Pro Tip: Be kind and respectful front desk agents deal with hundreds of guests daily. A friendly attitude can go a long way!
Mention a Special Occasion
Hotels love to enhance guest experiences, especially for special celebrations. If you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or bachelor/bachelorette party, mention it while booking or during check-in.
Example:
We’re celebrating our anniversary this weekend! Do you have any available room upgrades?
Even if they don’t offer a suite upgrade, they might give you a room with a better view or free perks like champagne or dessert.
Ask About Paid Upgrades
If a free upgrade isn’t available, ask about discounted paid upgrades. Hotels would rather sell a suite at a lower rate than leave it empty. Sometimes, you can upgrade to a much better room for a fraction of the regular price.
Pro Tip: If you’re booking in advance, check your email a few days before your stay at hotels sometimes send upgrade offers at a discounted rate.
Use Your Casino Loyalty Card
If you gamble, sign up for the hotels casino rewards program (MGM Rewards, Caesars Rewards, etc.). Even if you’re not a high roller, being a member can get you perks like room upgrades, priority check-in, and discounted stays.
Pro Tip: Charge everything to your room and use your rewards card while gambling to increase your chances of future upgrades.
Be Flexible
If you’re open to different room types, let the front desk know. For example, if you’re okay with a higher floor, a different tower, or a suite with a different layout, you might get an upgrade that others turned down.
Being flexible also helps if you’re booking last-minute, as hotels may offer complimentary upgrades to fill empty premium rooms.
Stay at a New or Less Popular Hotel
New hotels and resorts often over-deliver on guest experience to build their reputation. If you’re willing to stay at a newer or lesser-known hotel, you may have a higher chance of getting an upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Getting a room upgrade in Las Vegas isn’t guaranteed, but with the right strategy, you can significantly increase your chances. Be polite, ask at the right time, and consider tipping the front desk staff for their help.
Even if you don’t land a massive suite upgrade, you might still score a better view, a larger room, or extra perks to enhance your Vegas stay.
Have you ever gotten a free room upgrade in Vegas? Share your experience in the comments!
