Hotel request guide
Asking independent and chain hotels for an upgrade
The useful distinction is whether published programme rules apply to the booking. Property type alone does not establish which hotel is more likely to approve a request.
At a chain or participating hotel
Check the exact programme, tier, brand, property and rate. Some benefits are excluded at certain brands or on third-party bookings. A benefit may also be conditional on availability. Refer to it accurately, then ask the hotel to confirm it for the booking.
Programme-aware wording
I’m a [Programme] [Tier] member and understand that an upgrade may be available under the programme conditions. Could you confirm whether this hotel and booking are eligible?
At an independent hotel
There may be no programme entitlement to check. Use the room name, dates and reservation number and ask whether a higher category is available. If you are open to a paid change, ask for the total price before the reservation changes.
Discretionary wording
If a higher room category is available for the full stay, would you be able to consider an upgrade? Please let me know whether there would be an additional charge.
Questions that work for either
- Can the hotel note or consider the request now?
- When should the traveller check again?
- What exact category is offered?
- Is there a price or other condition?
A chain can exercise discretion and an independent hotel can have strict rules. Avoid ranking one category as universally easier.