Can I Upgrade Alaska Saver Fare? Your Guide to Upgrading Your Flight Experience
Alaska Airlines’ Saver fare is a popular option for budget-conscious travelers who want to save money on airfare. However, many people wonder if they can upgrade their Saver fare to a higher class. The answer is yes, but it depends on a few factors.
Firstly, it’s important to note that Saver fares are Alaska Airlines’ basic economy fares. This means that they come with certain restrictions, such as no seat selection and limited changeability. However, they do provide Main cabin benefits, such as comfortable seats and a free carry-on. If you want to upgrade your Saver fare, you can do so by paying for an upgrade or using your frequent flyer miles. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind.
For example, upgrades with miles are not allowed with a Saver fare. Seating options are also limited with Saver fares. However, complimentary upgrades for Mileage Plan elites may be available two hours prior to departure. Upgrades to Premium class may clear instantly at the time of booking, depending on your elite status tier and fare class. Overall, while it is possible to upgrade your Saver fare, it’s important to understand the restrictions and limitations that come with this fare type.
Understanding Alaska Saver Fares
What Are Saver Fares?
Alaska Saver Fares are a type of fare class offered by Alaska Airlines. They are designed to provide a lower-priced option for travelers who are willing to accept certain restrictions and limitations. Saver fares are similar to basic economy fares offered by other airlines. They provide the main cabin benefits such as comfortable seats and a free carry-on, but exclude seat selection and limits changeability.
Restrictions and Limitations
Alaska Saver Fares come with several restrictions and limitations that travelers should be aware of before booking. Firstly, seat selection is not available with these fares. Secondly, changes to the itinerary are not allowed, and cancellations are not refundable. Saver fares also come with a lower boarding priority, which means that passengers with saver fares will be among the last to board the plane.
It is important to note that upgrades to premium class are not available for Alaska Saver Fares. However, Mileage Plan elite customers, including those MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K, are now eligible for complimentary upgrades.
In terms of baggage, Saver fares adhere to the same policy as Main Cabin fares for checked bags. The first checked bag costs $30, the second $40, and any additional bags are $100 each. Passengers are also allowed one free carry-on bag and one personal item.
In summary, Alaska Saver Fares are a great option for travelers who are looking for a lower-priced option and are willing to accept certain restrictions and limitations. However, passengers should be aware of the limitations and restrictions that come with these fares, such as the inability to select seats and the lower boarding priority.
Upgrade Options for Saver Fares
Alaska Airlines offers Saver fares, which are a low-cost option for travelers. However, these fares come with some restrictions, including limited changeability and seat selection. Many travelers wonder if they can upgrade their Saver fare to a higher class of service, such as First Class or Premium Class. In this section, we will explore the upgrade options for Saver fares.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for an upgrade, your Saver fare must be booked in a certain fare category. You can select “Mileage” from the Upgrade fare type selections when shopping at alaskaair.com, and you will only be shown fares that qualify for an upgrade. Flights with available upgrade seats are designated with a “U” next to the fare.
Upgrade Process and Timing
If you are eligible for an upgrade, you can request it through the Alaska Airlines website or mobile app. You can also add yourself to the upgrade waitlist if no upgrades are available at the time of booking. The upgrade window opens 120 hours before departure, and you will be added to the upgrade list in order of priority. If you are upgraded, you will receive an email notification.
Mileage Plan and Elite Status Benefits
Mileage Plan is Alaska Airlines’ loyalty program, which offers a range of benefits to frequent flyers. Elite members, including MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K, are eligible for complimentary upgrades on Saver fares. Previously, upgrades were not offered on these fares. Elite members can also earn miles for their flights and enjoy other benefits, such as companion upgrades and guest upgrades.
In conclusion, upgrading a Saver fare on Alaska Airlines is possible, but it requires booking in a certain fare category and meeting eligibility requirements. The upgrade process can be initiated through the Alaska Airlines website or mobile app, and the upgrade window opens 120 hours before departure. Elite members can enjoy additional benefits, such as complimentary upgrades and earning miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the upgrade options available for Alaska Airlines Saver fares?
Passengers traveling with Alaska Airlines Saver fare can upgrade their seats to first class using miles or complimentary upgrades. However, upgrades with miles are not allowed with a Saver fare. Seating options are limited with Saver fares.
How does the Alaska Saver fare change fee structure work?
Alaska Airlines Saver fare is non-refundable and non-changeable. However, passengers can cancel their reservation and receive a credit for future travel, minus any applicable fees.
What are the benefits of choosing Alaska Saver fare over other fare types?
Alaska Airlines Saver fare is a cost-effective option for passengers who are willing to forego certain amenities, such as seat selection, priority boarding, and change flexibility, in exchange for a lower fare.
Under what circumstances can I receive a cancellation credit for an Alaska Saver fare?
Passengers who cancel their Alaska Airlines Saver fare reservation at least 60 days prior to departure can receive a credit for future travel, minus any applicable fees. The credit is valid for one year from the date of issue.
What are the baggage allowances and fees for Alaska Airlines Saver fares?
Passengers traveling with Alaska Airlines Saver fare are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag. Checked baggage is not included in the fare and can be added for an additional fee.
How does the upgrade waitlist process work for Alaska Airlines flights?
Passengers who have booked an Alaska Airlines Saver fare can join the upgrade waitlist for first class. Mileage Plan elites may be eligible for complimentary upgrades two hours prior to departure, subject to availability. Upgrades with miles are not allowed with a Saver fare.
