Getting a deal on a flight upgrade with today's economy is like finding a needle in a haystack. Sure, the internet has seen an emergence of websites competing to give customers the best rates on travel. There are sites that are dedicated to finding the cheapest rental car rates in an area, the cheapest hotel rates for vacations, the cheapest places to find gas in a neighborhood and so on. It's still possible to get that flight upgrade, but be ready for all the research it entails.

The internet is a vast world and there are many more sites dedicated to finding the cheapest price for airline travel. With the increase in the cost of living and the increase in fuel prices, there is no wonder why these sites thrive.

While the internet is a great source of finding flight upgrades, there are many sources offline that can help find the best deals on flight upgrades.

1. American Express.com. The American Express website offers points for travel as well as cheap airline tickets. American Express card holders can earn points toward airline tickets, making the site very helpful in finding the best deals for flight upgrades.
2. The Airport. The most qualified place to give out great first class upgrades is the airport itself. Asking anybody that you can find to ask is a sure fire way to get the best deals on flight upgrades. With a pleasant attitude, someone at the checkout counter is bound to cave in to your request.
3. Through the Frequent Flyers' Programs. Face it that's why you signed up for free gifts and free air miles. But there are other benefits, the programs allow for the members to be at the top of a waiting list to get bumped up to first class. Who better to give the best deals on first class upgrades than the airline itself? Plus, they like to reward customers time and again for not going to another airline to fly.
4. Maybe exaggerating the truth…just a little. While this is not intended to advocate for lying, it is helpful to note an observation that has been made by many. If you stretch the truth…just a little bit to include very bad experiences with competitor (s) of the airline, you may find yourself sitting in first class in no time at all.
5. Asking around. Never be afraid to ask other travelers their secrets to getting the best deals on flight upgrades. While some would prefer not to share their secrets, others may boast about their ways and share them with at no additional cost. Discuss the idea before going to the airport, via chat room, blog, etc. In order to avoid competition for the first class upgrade upon check in, it's best not to share intentions with others while at the airport.
6. Be nice to the counter agent. The person who is checking you in is an employee or so we hope of the airline. Airlines offer their employees the best deals on first class upgrades in additional to discounted tickets for friends and families. All the employee has to do is type in a code. While you don't have to take the agent out for lunch or a movie, it wouldn't hurt to be extremely polite and nice.