The Art of Getting Freebies
It was April 2019, and I had arrived at the hotel two hours early for check-in. My husband wasn’t feeling well, and we were both excited to start our holiday. As I approached the reception desk, I could feel the tension in my body. I wasn’t sure how the staff would react, but I knew I needed to be careful with my words.
The man behind the desk looked a bit taken aback by my energetic greeting, but he agreed to check if our room might be ready. I continued to speak, sharing that I had always wanted to stay there. My husband would be in soon, I explained, as he was resting outside in the car after his recent cancer treatments. Everything I said was true, but I had a purpose.
As I spoke, I gently dabbed at my eyes, trying to convey a sense of sadness and vulnerability. The employee looked up and smiled sympathetically, which told me I had succeeded. I knew then that we would get an early check-in and possibly even a room upgrade.
This isn’t the first time I’ve used this technique. Over the years, I’ve become quite the expert at reading staff and knowing what they need to hear. It all started in 2008 when I watched a group of diners celebrating someone’s birthday. They received free champagne and a special dessert. I joined in singing “Happy Birthday” and began to wonder how the staff actually knew it was a real celebration.
I mentioned this to my husband, and we decided to try it out. He was initially uncomfortable, but a year later, we were booked into a restaurant for my 42nd birthday. I had told them it was my 40th, and to my surprise, the kitchen staff brought out two glasses of champagne and a cake with “40” on it. Everyone sang, and I enjoyed every moment. Kev was mortified at first, but he eventually got into the spirit of it.
That experience sparked my addiction to getting freebies. Over the years, I’ve managed to secure free desserts, drinks, room upgrades, early check-ins, and even free breakfasts on “Room Only” deals. Sometimes, just asking can get you a free breakfast, but it’s more likely if you mention something like a cold shower or a noisy bedroom next door.
There have been times when I’ve had to unblock a toilet, which saved the staff some work, so I insisted on getting some complimentary drink vouchers. At hotel bar prices, these savings add up quickly.
This habit extends to shopping as well. When buying makeup or perfume, I won’t make a purchase until I have a large bag of samples. If I’m spending £100 on perfume, I want as many free samples as possible. I ask politely about any deals or samples available. This strategy has worked for me, and I still use freebies I got 10 years ago.
My haggling skills are legendary among my family and friends. While they don’t want to witness it, they’re happy to share in my good fortune. Most staff respond positively, offering upgrades and other perks, but occasionally, I come across a “freebie nemesis.”
These are usually middle-aged women who have seen it all and know the tricks of someone like me. I try to avoid them, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. If I don’t feel comfortable, I won’t even attempt to get anything. Failure can ruin the whole day.
There was one instance where I tried for an early check-in at a hotel, but the receptionist wasn’t budging. I kept trying, but I was met with a stony look and no progress. After 18 hours, I had to admit defeat. To this day, I haven’t returned to that hotel.
Despite the occasional setback, I’ve had far more success than failures. I believe in always trying. Nobody minds if you ask. Take a deep breath and make your suggestion. You’ll soon get a feel for when to persist and when to walk away. Follow your instincts.
Even if you don’t get the upgrade, hotel staff might still offer a meal discount or a complimentary drink voucher. These are small wins for being brave. Most importantly, be polite and friendly. Staff are allowed to give extras but will only do so for people who are courteous.
Despite the odd setback, I have no doubt my freebie blagging days will continue well into my old age. I have no intention of paying full price for my blue rinse and perm, either. I can just see myself haggling for a care home room upgrade.
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