Frequent flyers are forever wondering how they can snag that coveted airline upgrade.
And now, YouTubers Ryan and Jade from travel blog Live The Dash believe they might just have cracked the code.
The adventurous couple embarked on a journey to discover the finest buffets in Las Vegas, kicking off their escapade aboard Virgin Atlantic’s new service out of Manchester.
They decided to travel in style – head to toe in Elvis Presley outfits, complete with the legendary star-spangled white jumpsuit and shades combo that typified the King’s later stage years.
Jade said: “When we heard a rumour that Elvis gets free upgrades on flights to Vegas we had no choice but to put it to the test.” The risk is certainly worth the reward – a mere £30 spent on costumes could potentially unlock an upgrade worth in excess of £1,500.
Their spirits high, Ryan approached the check-in desk with a smile, buoyed by the enthusiastic feedback from fellow passengers. “We have some premium economy tickets and we’re hoping that because we’ve dressed as Elvis Presley they’re going to bump us up to upper class,” he said.
“It’s gone down amazingly”, chimed in Jade. “People are loving our outfits. People are walking past and taking pictures, they’re asking if we’re going to Vegas, and they’re making jokes about Elvis it’s making me feel so positive about a flight upgrade.”
Despite their impeccable styling, it seemed initially that the scheme wouldn’t pan out. While a delighted Ryan savoured a complimentary Virgin Redhead cocktail signature offering from the airline, he was still nestled in his economy seat, which cost him around £800.
The couple’s hopes for a luxurious £2,500 Upper Class flight experience were dashed as they faced the prospect of being squeezed into Premium Economy seats for two hours, clad in uncomfortable nylon jumpsuits.
However, their fortunes took a dramatic turn when Ryan revealed: “We’ve been able to come into the Upper Class section of the plane and we’re sat in a booth. This is the sort of luxury that the upper class and Elvis get.”
They found themselves in an exclusive area reminiscent of first-class train accommodation, complete with desks set between plush benches, far surpassing ordinary airline seating.
Ryan was thrilled with the upgrade, remarking: “You can do cocktail-tasting here you can just chill out here you could conduct an interview here.” He declared he would settle for nothing less than this level of comfort on future flights.
Jade reflected on their adventure, concluding: “The main thing that I’ve learned is that you should just wear Elvis outfits on every flight that you go on because you never know what might happen.”
Their journey continued as they explored Las Vegas’ buffets, opting to conceal their YouTube persona to avoid preferential treatment and extra helpings in exchange for potential publicity.
The lesson they took away from their escapades? While remaining undercover may secure an authentic dining experience in Vegas, dressing as Elvis is undoubtedly the ticket to flying with flair.