The Trick to Get the Airplane Seat You Want: It's Easier Than You Think
Choosing to fly with a low-cost airline can be an incredibly tempting offer. For a small amount of money, you can reach different places around the world without paying the exorbitant fares of other more exclusive airlines. However, you get what you pay for, and while these flights are economical, they often do not include essential aspects of travel, such as luggage, food, and seat selection.
While everyone has their own preferences when it comes to travel, most travelers agree that seat selection is crucial for a pleasant flight. And it's completely understandable: if you're embarking on a long journey, it makes sense to be seated and comfortable in the spot you most desire. Here's how you can do it for free.
How to Get Your Seat Without Paying Extra
If it's your first time flying with a low-cost airline, you should know that they will likely send you an email 24 or 48 hours before your flight to check in through their website. This means you will need to fill in your information, declare if you have any luggage, and choose your seat, whether you want to pay for it or wait for the machine to assign you one randomly.
Now, what's the hack for getting a preferred seat without having to pay extra? The answer is as simple as waiting until the last moment to check in. If you're wondering why, here are two essential reasons:
- On one hand, since airlines assign seats randomly for free, the first ones assigned to travelers are those in the back and the middle, so these will go to people who check in early.
- Secondly, the seats in the front are the most expensive, so they will reserve them until the last minute in order to sell them. The same goes for window or aisle seats. If no one selects them at the end, they will be yours.
Other Hacks to Get the Seats You Like
In addition to this little trick, there are other tips that can help you find that spot you love so you travel as comfortably as possible. Here are some tips:
Check in at the airport
Some airlines are more flexible when it comes to seat selection. Even if you may not have the option online, if you speak to the flight attendant, you can explain your situation and possibly get a better seat.
Don't choose the middle seat
If you've decided to buy your seat, hurry to be among the first to select the best spot. One trick is to opt for the side seats, as most people don't like sitting in the middle, so they are likely to remain empty, giving you more space.
Use SeatGuru
Nowadays, there are several apps that can help you choose the best seats for free and in a very visual way. SeatGuru, for instance, is a website where you can see the exact plane and airline you will be flying with. There, users from all around the world upload photos and reviews about the aircraft, helping you understand the best option for your ticket.
Wait until you're on the plane
Embarking on a journey also depends on your cleverness and attention skills. If the previous tricks didn't work, your next option is to wait until you're inside the airplane to see which seats are vacant.
Once you spot them, wait until the flight is almost full and suggest to the flight attendant making the change. In most cases, if the spots are unoccupied, you will likely be allowed to move there.