Can You Upgrade Your Hotel Room for $20?

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posted on 2 years ago

Can You Upgrade Your Hotel Room for $20?

Have you heard of the $20 trick? Are you planning to use it to upgrade your hotel stay in Las Vegas? The $20 trick, or simply the sandwich trick, is an excellent way to get a complimentary hotel upgrade in Vegas. The upgrade could be shifting to a larger room with a better view of the Strip or getting a spacious room. The guests usually tip the front desk agent with a $20 bill at check-in for a complimentary upgrade. Is it worth trying the $20 trick? Let’s explore below: - [caption id="attachment_31686" align="aligncenter" width="333"]

The $20 Trick[/caption]

How It Works

By slipping a $20 bill between a credit card and ID when checking in at the front desk, guests tip the front desk agent and hope to get a free room upgrade. They ask the front desk agent if there is a complimentary room upgrade as they hand over the sandwiched tip. Most front desk employees are familiar with the trick and will know what guests want.

Does the $20 Trick Work in Vegas?

The trick may not work since getting a free hotel upgrade in Vegas depends on several factors. First, ensure you stay in Vegas at the right time. The trick may not work during the high season when most hotels are at full capacity. Second, hotels with strict policies may prohibit their front desk staff from accepting tips for free room upgrades. And, there are instances where the hotel staff are not in the best of moods. They may take the bribe and still not provide the free upgrade. Finally, some guests slip more than $20 as a tip, pushing up expectations by the front desk agents. In these instances, the $20 incentive may get you a minimum hotel upgrade instead of the amenities you were expecting.

Should You Try the $20 Trick in Vegas?

Whereas the $20 trick is an open secret in Vegas, it is still a bribe that puts the guest and hotel staff in an awkward position on their first acquaintance. And, if the trick fails, the check-in process becomes uncomfortable for both parties. Then, the best way to upgrade your hotel room is by politely asking the front desk agent. Reach out for the $20 bill as you wait for the response. That way, you indirectly tell the front desk agent a small tip awaits them if they get you the hotel upgrade. Alternatively, let the staff know you need a complimentary room upgrade and are ready to tip for their help. “Cash in Hand, Ready to Tip” is an excellent alternative to the $20 trick. It makes it easy to ask for the upgrade without feeling awkward about it. Other ways to get a complimentary room upgrade in Vegas include booking directly with the hotel, making friendly small talk with the staff, or joining a loyalty program.