How to choose an airplane seat for a comfortable flight: tips from experienced travelers
Many people's lives are simply not possible without regular flights. However, hours in the sky can turn into a real challenge if a passenger is not able to sit comfortably in their seat. Find out more about the secrets of choosing the best seats on the plane for your comfortable flights
Air travel can be both a pleasant adventure and a great deal of stress for different people. Regardless of how you feel about flying, the wait is often stressful, and we all want the journey to be not only fast but also comfortable. However, some factors, such as the inability to recline the seat back, the lack of a window, or the proximity of the toilet, can significantly dampen the mood during the flight.
Not all seats on an airplane provide the same level of comfort. To avoid inconveniences and enjoy your trip, it is important to know how to choose the most comfortable seat. Visit World's editorial team will help you figure it out. We will tell you a few rules on how to choose a seat on an airplane, as well as analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
You can learn more about the best time and day to book your flights in 2024 here.
Seats by the window: the best option or just a marketing ploy?
Sitting by the window on an airplane is a dream for many passengers. The view from the window is always breathtaking, and this seat choice has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Good lighting for reading;
- No fuss from passing passengers;
- Gorgeous view from the window that makes the flight unforgettable.
Cons:
- The need to disturb neighbors if you need to get off.
Thus, an aisle seat can be an ideal choice for those who value peace and views from a height, but you should take into account possible inconveniences.
Airplane seats near the aisle
Many people avoid aisle seats because of possible discomfort. However, such seats have their advantages.
Pros:
- The ability to stretch out your legs in the aisle, which adds comfort during long flights;
- Freedom of movement without the need to disturb neighbors;
- The advantage of being among the first to leave the cabin when boarding and disembarking the plane.
Cons:
- Passengers and flight attendants with wheelchairs will constantly walk past you, which can be inconvenient;
- You will have to get up every time your neighbors want to get off.
So, an aisle seat can be a good choice for those who value freedom of movement and comfort, but you should take into account the possible inconvenience of constant traffic around you.
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Seats after emergency exits
Seats near the emergency exit on an airplane receive mixed reviews. Some passengers prefer them to aisle seats, while others only dream of a window seat.
Airlines often reserve these seats for passengers who can help the crew in case of an emergency. But not all carriers follow this principle.
Pros:
- Lots of free space, allowing you to stand up or stretch your legs without disturbing other passengers;
- Some airplanes do not have a row of seats in front of these seats, which increases the space;
Cons:
- It is forbidden to clutter the emergency exit with luggage;
- These seats are not available to the elderly, children and passengers with animals.
The seats in front of the emergency exits have one drawback: the seat backs usually do not recline, although there is additional legroom.
Seats in the front of the aircraft
It is believed that such seats are the most dangerous. Seats at the front of the plane have their advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered before choosing.
Pros:
- Wider choice of food: food is served from the front of the plane, so passengers have more options for food and drinks;
- Quicker departure: passengers at the front of the plane are almost guaranteed to be the first to leave, which is convenient for short flights;
Cons:
- Possible proximity to children: this part of the plane often has mounts for baby cradles, so the likelihood of proximity to small children increases significantly;
- Noise and discomfort: It can be difficult to work or rest due to the proximity to children.
These factors will help you make an informed decision about your seat choice.
Seats in the tail of the plane
On unloaded flights, the seats at the back of the plane are usually empty. Therefore, you can comfortably sit on three seats, even if you bought one ticket. The seats at the rear of the plane have their own characteristics that can make the journey more comfortable for some passengers.
Pros:
- Safety: according to statistics, in the event of an accident, passengers sitting in the tail have a higher chance of survival;
- Free seats: on less busy flights, these seats often remain empty, which allows you to sit in several seats even with one ticket;
- Exit through the tail: if the plane is not equipped with telescopic ladders, passengers can exit through the tail door.
Cons:
- Smaller food selection: the range of food and drinks can be limited, as flight attendants are the last to serve the tail section of the plane.
Useful tips for choosing the best seat on the plane
To ensure the best seat on the plane, arrive before check-in. However, there is a little secret: if you arrive later, you can get a seat in business class, but this is rare. In the worst case scenario, you may get a seat that other passengers have given up.
The least busy days for flights are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, and the busiest are Friday and Sunday. Flights in the morning and evening are usually fully booked, so choose a different time to have a better chance of getting a seat.
Wing seats are the best for those who experience motion sickness, as they are the least turbulent. Avoid rows 8 through 20 - this is the noisiest part of the airplane due to engine noise.
When traveling alone, you can book seats near the window and aisle. Few people want to sit in the middle seat, so the chances of additional comfort increase.
We remind you! Do you like to travel without heavy bags and heavy suitcases? To simplify your travels, we have prepared a detailed guide with the requirements of various popular carriers. Read more about the rules of hand luggage transportation on Ryanair, Wizz Air, Lufthansa and other popular airlines.
To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need travel insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Travel guide for 200 countries;
Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;
Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);
Medical insurance all over the world.
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