This Simple Hotel Room Request May Get You A Sneaky Space Upgrade Without Paying Extra

Getting a hotel room upgrade feels like winning the lottery. From extra space to better views, securing a room upgrade doesn't just enhance your comfort, it's also completely free when it works out. Although most travelers often assume that they need either elite status or hundreds of extra dollars to enjoy better accommodations, the truth is that getting more space and even upgraded amenities doesn't always require a collection of loyalty points or premium payments.

And while there's no foolproof or guaranteed method for actually landing an upgrade — you never really know what's available or how busy the hotel is — previous travelers have discovered one simple request that can significantly improve your chances of getting a bigger room without spending extra money. The secret? Asking for a corner room at check-in. Due to standard hotel architecture, corner rooms typically offer more square footage than regular rooms because they sit at the ends of hallways. Plus, these rooms also often feature additional windows, which means you'll get to enjoy even more natural light and better views from multiple angles.

Better yet, hotels don't charge extra for corner rooms since they're not officially classified as premium accommodations — which means that all you're actually doing is working a structural advantage in your favor. All of this ultimately makes requesting a corner room a pretty easy way to improve your hotel stay without any added expenses.

Beyond asking for a corner room to potentially snag a bigger accommodation, there are plenty of other hacks to try when checking into a hotel that might help you win big. For starters, when you choose to travel can play a crucial role in your quest for a hotel room upgrade. This, because hotels are more likely to offer complimentary upgrades during slower periods when occupancy rates are lower than usual. Along with that, arriving between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. can also improve your chances in two ways: More rooms become available after the day's checkouts are processed, and sometimes hotels will run out of standard rooms and have to upgrade you.

Another great strategy is joining hotel loyalty programs. By becoming a member, you'll dramatically increase your upgrade potential, especially when booking directly with the hotel. Nowadays, most hotel programs reward travelers with perks like free Wi-Fi just for signing up, but the real advantages come as you progress through higher status tiers. In fact, most top-tier elite members often enjoy added benefits like suite upgrades, resort fee waivers, late checkout privileges, and access to exclusive club lounges. The key, however, is to make sure you choose one program to focus your loyalty on rather than spreading stays across multiple chains.

Finally, simple courtesy goes a long way — sometimes even further than most travelers realize. Being genuinely pleasant and respectful to the front desk staff will create a positive first impression that can lead to some unexpected perks. Similarly, being honest and letting them know if you're celebrating a special occasion during your stay can also lead to complimentary amenities or room enhancements. That said, just make sure you avoid making specific room requests in advance. Instead, stay flexible, stay polite, and let staff know you're open to any available improvements if they have them.