One of the knocks against airline elite status today is that upgrades seem harder than ever to get. Premium cabins go out full, airlines sell more upgrades than ever, and even top-tier elites often find themselves staring at the waitlist instead of champagne in business class. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised when an upgrade on Alaska Airlines’ nonstop flight from Seattle to Rome actually came through.

The timing, however, made for a slightly stressful airport experience and a reminder that we can’t count on an upgrade. As the old saying goes, if you want first, buy first. In this case, full review here, I was upgraded and very happy about it!

An Economy Award Ticket to Europe

The trip started with what was already a pretty good redemption. I booked Alaska Airlines’ Seattle to Rome nonstop using just 35,000 Alaska Atmos Reward miles. For a long flight to Rome, this is a pretty good deal in my opinion. It also included a 2nd segment on to Frankfurt.

Typically, I will avoid economy at ALL costs.…