I've always done very well on the first flight of the day out of EWR. I even had a companion upgraded with me last year.

My rule of thumb: If a mileage upgrade is available, I take it. However, I've EUAd each of the last 3 three times on my way out.


The flight back...well, that's a different story all together. I find that I often get EUAd on the ~2pm flight Sunday/Monday (if they have one)...but I usually waitlist with miles to up my odds. The LAS ride home is rough one to do in the back.

Good luck!!