A few tips to book the right seats on the plane, for short and long trips, tailored to your needs.
The golden age of air travel now feels very distant. Back then, passengers flew dressed in elegant clothes on airplanes that featured luxurious seats. Today, however, the advantages are different, such as the ease of traveling to many different destinations around the world and the countless choices of airlines.
Even if you are traveling in economy, according to Conde Nast Traveller there are options that can make your flight more pleasant. Whether you are afraid of the airplane or traveling with small children, here are some tips to choose the best seats according to your needs.
For those who are afraid of flying
Many travelers feel fear about the journey itself and during the flight get anxious with turbulence, as well as takeoff and landing. If you belong to this category, then it is better to choose an aisle seat near the wings, as it is considered the most stable part of the airplane. The middle of the airplane is the center of balance and is the best spot if you want not to feel the turbulence so much.
In addition, for those who are anxious, an aisle seat can help, as you will have visual contact with the aircraft crew. During turbulence, seeing the flight attendants calm and smiling can work reassuringly. Do not hesitate to inform the crew that you are afraid, as they usually make sure to check on you and reassure you. However, there are others who prefer the window because they have the view of what is happening outside. Attention though: if you sit in the exit row, you will not be able to have your bag with you.
For parents traveling with an infant
If you are traveling with a baby, the most ideal choice is the first row of the economy cabin, exactly behind the dividing wall of business or premium economy. This is the bulkhead row which often allows the placement of a baby bassinet without extra charge, in consultation with each airline. According to experts this row is the best, since if a bassinet is installed you will have your hands free to feed the baby. Speak with the airline to see if there is bassinet availability and book your tickets as early as possible to secure it, as there are not many on each airplane.
The window seat is also practical if you are traveling with a baby on your lap, as you can rest your elbow on the window armrest when feeding or holding them, in contrast with the aisle where you do not have the option to lean anywhere. When traveling with small children, you are given the possibility to board among the first on the airplane, but it may be a better idea to board at the end, so as to avoid being in such a small space for longer.
For those who want to sleep on long-haul flights
On certain long-haul airplanes there are rows with only two seats on the two lateral sides of the cabin. These are the seats where you will be less cramped if you are two people and they are next to the window, which makes them ideal for sleep. If you want to sleep, it is better to avoid the last row of economy as it is close to the toilets and is noisier since people gather there. Seats with extra legroom at the emergency exits are also popular, although they cost more and require you to meet specific safety requirements.
For those who have an immediate connection
If you need to catch the next flight quickly, prefer seats at the front part of the cabin. That way, you will manage to stand up among the first as soon as the airplane lands. Alternatively, an aisle seat will again allow you to get up more promptly when the seatbelt sign turns off. Even if you finally sit at the back part of the aircraft, make sure to inform the crew about the immediate connection you must catch. There is a chance they will move you forward before landing if there is space.
