3 Easy Ways to Get a Better Seat on a Plane, According to an Flight Expert

A fantastic vacation begins the moment you board your plane, but achieving that requires a bit of planning to ensure you’re seated comfortably for the journey ahead. Even if your flight is already booked, there are strategies to secure a better seat. An online travel agency expert, dedicated to offering travelers the best deals, shares his top tips for enhancing your flight experience on your next trip.

3 Easy Ways to Get a Better Seat on a Plane

Want Free Upgrades? Enroll in Airline Loyalty Programs

While the allure of a free upgrade to first class seems increasingly out of reach, there’s still a viable path to better seating—airline loyalty programs. “The days of free upgrades are largely over,” states the expert, “but airlines do reserve a few seats for their loyalty and frequent flier program members.” If you’re not part of these programs, it’s recommended to select the best available seat within your cabin or explore affordable upgrade options, such as extra legroom in economy class, available for purchase.

The “Best Seat” Depends on Your Needs

Selecting the “best” seat is highly subjective and depends on the traveler’s needs and circumstances. Consider the timing of your flight and who you’re traveling with. For those on red-eye flights aiming for undisturbed sleep, a window seat is advisable. Traveling with children? Bulkhead seats offer extra legroom, minimizing disturbance to other passengers. Business travelers might prefer aisle seats near the front for a quick exit. If the ideal seat wasn’t available at booking, don’t hesitate to inquire at the counter before boarding or ask the crew for seat swaps once on board.

Do Research on Your Plane’s Seat Map

To avoid surprises, familiarize yourself with your plane’s seating arrangement before booking. Websites like ogofly.com offer detailed seat maps, showing available seats and their additional costs. While some airlines don’t charge for seat selection, this is becoming rarer on domestic flights. Other resources like desmotravel.com provide insights into legroom and seat width, and services such as SeatGuru and Expert Flyer can help determine the best seating options to suit your preferences and needs.

By following these expert tips, you can significantly enhance your travel experience, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.