When I first started flying, I always grabbed a window seat. But...after then having to travel for work on almost a weekly basis for 3+ years, I decided the aisle seat was better for me as I had full control of things if I needed a bathroom break, just a walk around or something from my carry on.
I'm a disabled Vietnam Veteran who fly's back home to the USA to visit from Sydney (14 hours) ... so after 50 years of flying from my Army (I was a paratrooper so getting off was quick on those flights🤣) and DOD around the States and the odd NATO country.. So I just sit and wait for plane to pretty much clear before getting off... also if I get right off, I'm still waiting for my luggage to appear on the baggage carousel....
I sit as far back as possible to have easier access to a bathroom. Also, we frequently fly Southwest, which has open seating, and being far back increases the chance that the third seat in our row will go unoccupied. As for getting off the plane earlier, who cares, we all wind up at the baggage carousel together anyway.
@@Sdority905 Usually this means you pick your seat once you are on the plane. Those boarding first have lots to choose from, while the last passengers to board need to look for whatever is left.
I never understand all those people who bum rush the gate to board or try to bum rush off the plane. We all have assigned seats and we’re all getting on the plane! And if you have a tight connection try speaking to the FA who can arrange to get you off earlier.
Always an aisle person. Also love the 1st row of seats behind 1st on Alaska. They don’t have bulkhead wall so plenty of room for legs but they do have trays in arm rest, making arm rests solid. No strangers thigh against you!
I'm a frequent bathroom user, so the aisle seat is definitely my choice. If you have a motion sickness problem, DON'T sit all the way at the back. Also, some airlines run out of food choices by the time they get to you, for example, chicken or beef...?😁 Thanks for the tip on Seat Guru! Never knew it exists
I do have one friend that prefers a middle seat because she isn't a fan of flying. She didn't want to be near the window because she didn't want to look out and see how high up she was and she feared sitting on the aisle would make her feel exposed and anxious. I sat on the aisle, she sat in the middle and it acted for her in the way a weighted blanket can for those with anxiety or other sleep related problems can. She felt a bit more protected and enclosed so she didn't think so much about her various fears of flying. She's still very much fearful of flying (white knuckled the arm rest and my hand during takeoff and landing) but she was able to reload a little during the flight. That's the only time I've ever had someone prefer the middle seat.
Two other considerations that you missed that I think are worth mentioning. 1) Some planes have no windows in a row (for example row 24) because this is where the AC ducts come up to feed the overhead vents. This is another reason to check the seat rating web site for your specific plane. 2) I like window seats for the view and head rest. Think about where the sun will be during your flight so you don't have the heat of or have to look at the sun (don't forget it is always a sunny day above the clouds). So for example on a SB flight in the morning, WB flight mid day or a NB flight in the evening, I like the right side of the plane. As a bonus when flying on SW where I pick any open seat when I board I will check the wind direction at the airports. For example at my home airport of IND, if the wind is coming from the SW, I'll sit on the left side of the plane to get a view of downtown Indy on the glidepath in. (Yes I have been accused by friends of over thinking things)
On steamships going from England to India the word "posh" (which in England came to mean fancy)was invented. P port O outbound S starboard H homebound, so I don't think you are overthinking at all. They chose those cabins on the boat to avoid the sweltering sun in the days before air conditioning. :)
@@lillianliber1798 I love this! What a treat to learn where that word, posh, came from. I plan to dazzle my dinner partners with this tidbit of esoterica.
It's amazing to me that of all the times I've flown; I never really cared about where I sat. I'm not picky, I'm not a complainer, I find the cheapest fare and remind myself that WE WILL ALL arrive at the same time.
@@cjdr.4145It was never about arriving before everybody else. It's about your comfort during a long flight. There's a huge difference between arriving feeling fresh vs feeling groggy because your seat was uncomfortable
I always like seating at the window seat because I always like to look out and take pictures or videos. As for which side of the plane I'll be seating it depends which direction the plane is flying. If it's flying east to west, then I'll sit on the right side. West to east, I'll sit on the left side. It's more of avoiding where the sun is when flying during middle of the day. I didn't mind at first but sometimes I get a little heated up when the sun is hitting me. It gets uncomfortable for a while. I wished there are more planes that has only 2 seats on the side instead of 3. It's hard to find those anymore.
Oh yes. My wife and I really miss the older MD-80s with their 2 x 3 seating configuration. I like windows and she likes aisles, so the two seats on one side were perfect.
Good job thanks. A couple of extra points and mainly pertaining to longer than short flights. 1) If you pick a window seat, I don't, and it's daytime outside the attendant will ask you to "darken" it so pax can watch the screens. 2) Especially on larger aircraft, space under the seat ahead of you is used for the entertainment centre electronics box and I have no accurate idea how this can be avoided. BTW rear sets don't experience less turbulence however, the plane rotates around the wing and centre of gravity thereby accentuating the angular movement at the rear.
I always prefer the aisle seat because if it is a very long flight sitting next to the window can have disadvantages if the passenger in the row go to sleep and you have to wake them up to go to the toilet and if you have any digestive issues on board , using the toilet multi times during the flight can be a real problem getting past other passengers if sitting in the inner location next to the widow , also the aisle is closest to the crew and looking at menus , getting served or asking questions is made easier and access to your bags is much easier . The front of the plane is far better because usually you are off the plane much quicker when it lands if the rear stairs are not being used and this means getting to the border control area quicker and out of the airport quicker without standing in queues for longer times . The worst seats on the plane are those next to the toilets where people are coming and going all the time and those seats right at the back of the plane against the wall which don't go back fully . It is not wise to be the last passenger aboard the airline because sometimes the overhead lockers are fully loaded and they can take your luggage to put under the plane where the risk of it being lost is possible .
On many, if not most, planes these days, the aisle seats have less space under the seat for your feet or personal item. As to bulkhead seats, you also have to be aware of whether that particular bulkhead has the crib attachment. On many airlines, those are located on the center bulkhead and starboard side bulkhead in each economy cabin. Two other big considerations about which side of the plane to choose: 1) if one side would have a particularly great view upon takeoff or landing - or even while flying (like over the Grand Canyon), and/or 2) if you want to remain comfortable temperature-wise during the flight and/or to be able to sleep regardless of what other people near you do with their window shades, you want to avoid the side which would be sunward during the flight.
I always book 3 months earlier and i always pick the premiere seating bulkhead row usually about $100 per ticket more but for a 14 hour flight its definitely worth it. I like the isle seat and my wife loves the window seat. We never had any problems stowing our bags under our seat or above.
One thing you didn't mention which may not be of concern to a seasoned traveller like you but would mean a lot to most people who are travelling for pleasure and like to take photos, vlog, make insta stories etc. Depending on where you are going a window seat will give you great opportunities for taking some post-able videos and photos. If you are going to Paris, just before landing you get nice views, in Norway, I found that both take-offs and and landings from Oslo and Bergen provided me with some lovely shots and even in the middle of the journey there were some mountains that were much appreciated by my friends when they saw the video taken on my phone. So, consider your destination and the time of day when you would take off or land there.
Another thing to consider about aisle seats: your arm and shoulder often get bumped by passengers walking by, and by the drink/food carts. And if you sit towards the back of the plane you'll end up getting your drink and food served last; you'll have to wait a long time for a beverage or snacks/food.
I’m flying to Germany in September and as I’m paying dirt cheap air ticket, I would only choose the seat during check in and I might sneak some food onto the plane as I don’t want to pay for it. Haha. This video is great!
@@PortableProfessional The airline is Scoot and they have a policy of no outside food and beverage. I might sneak in some fast food and chocolate bar on board. Middle row Aisle left seat is my go to always. Hope I manage to pick on during check in!
For me being able to get up and move around is critical for long flights so I always choose the aisle. I’ve even changed the days I fly in order to get an aisle seat but I have a flexible schedule. I also try to be near the front because I often have a connecting flight and want the extra time. Even if I don’t it’s annoying having to wait to get off the plane.
I’m a window flyer. I like the view and having something to lean on when I sleep. I never thought about the left vs right side of the plane - thanks so much for the tip!
I never thought about my arm like that so that’s great information to half and I will readjust my favorite spot which is usually the second. I’ll on the plane right side. I like to be in the aisle because I don’t like to have to ask people to get up and I like to work while I fly. I fly a lot and have flown all my life so this is really good tips. Thank you very much for consolidate them all in one place. At least quite a few good tips.
I have a left knee that hurts whenever I'm seated in a particular position for a long period. As such, I always look out for an aisle seat (usually H) on the right side of the plane so I can easily stretch my left leg and more importantly, get up to take a stroll to ease up the leg stiffness.
I know how it feels mine is on d right leg pain so isle seat on d left side most suitable for me and upgrade to extra leg room esp international flights 👍
@@bootscanlas9995 Good tips.Dreading sitting for 5 hours with painful knee (mostly right side) wondering if I am allowed to use my cane on the plane aisles
One important consideration you missed is there is more engine noise on the back seats. This is especially important on long flights where you want to sleep. I always try to choose a seat ahead of the wings.
I like to watch the scenery go by, so I choose a window seat on the north side of the plane, which means: right side westbound; left side eastbound. That way I don't have the sun beating in on me or in my eyes when I try to watch the scenery out the window.
I haven't flown much and the flights I've taken so far haven't been longer than 3-5 hours. I've had aisle seats before and I will avoid them at all costs! I had 2 aisle seats on my last trip and it was the worst! Everybody and their grandmother decided to walk up and down the aisles bumping on me, and even the flight attendants hit my elbow with their cart twice. It was awful, no matter how small I tried to make myself in those seats. I prefer the window seats. I get a view, a place to rest my head, and best of all no disturbances. In short flights I don't have to get up to the restroom and I don't have to put up with being hurt by the traffic from the aisle seat.
Good information but frequent fliers learn these pretty quickly. I am right handed and don’t work on a computer during the flight. Not big issue but I choose a right hand aisle seat because I don’t want someone walking by hitting my arm while I eat or drink.
I started watching your videos, to know if i am doing the right thing everytime i travel internationally. To my surprise almost everything you mentioned are the ones i am actually doing, Seating at the back, how to book flights etc. I guess i am doing it right & it works actually. I am now one of your your "subscribers"...Thank You, Keep it Up!!!
I'm taking my first ever international flight in 2 weeks. 8 hours each way. I've selected window seats 3/4 the way back. For variety I selected the right side going and the left side coming home. I'll see how I go for comfort 😊
I flew to London on a 787 in the very back row. It had a closet behind it, not a bathroom, and the seats did recline. It was a great seat because I could recline without being in someone else's space, and because the bathroom wasn't there the traffic was low. I did check seatguru before i booked. The big negative to this seat was that because the airplane is composite and more flexible a little turbulence made the tail wag side to side the whole flight. My head was going left right left right the whole way. The way back was smooth so that ride was good.
YES INDEED. 14.5 hour flight from LAX back home & we asked for the exit row seats & were with the toilets. No big deal - except it becomes a place for people to chat at 0200. After a delayed take off we had a few screaming kids to entertain us all the way. I invested in Ear Plugs for the next flights then went Business Class Only. Domestic I prefer an aisle seat only - even in Business Class.
I am traveling to Vietnam in January. I went on seatguru before i watched your video. I always take an aisle. Especially on long haul flights. I paid $15 just to book row 25. My lucky number and i didn't want to chance not getting an aisle for the long ride.
Thank you! Most of my flights are with in those 2 hrs so yep i am one who likes the window seat And I always choose the side opposite the sun rise or sun set :)
Thank you so much for these tips. I haven't flown as much as you have, but many of your tips I have had to learn by trial and error. How nice for newbies to learn from you before making our mistakes! Window vs aisle, for example.
With my daughter if it's long haul 3/4/3 configuration we always go with the centre 4 seat aisle since no one will cross over us to get out of their seat on a 14 hour flight.
I can relate with sitting closer to the back, so i can see what's going on in the front of the plane :). As you’ve mentioned, like about three quarters near the back. But for me, i would choose a window seat on the right side, considering it tends to be fewer people on that side. While hoping no one sits in that middle seat next to me 😅. I also like to record the take-off and landings. Fun fact: lately, I have been binge watching your videos because I'm learning a lot as a novice traveler. Even if you don’t get to read all the comments. I just want to say i sincerely appreciate you. Thank you for helping us in so many ways. God bless you. 🙏🏾
all the times I flew Delta they boarded first class and business and then from the back rows. so if you are in the back you board earlier and get first dibs on overhead spots
Always a window seat, and the one on the extreme left as you're walking down the aisle. I have piriformis syndrome, so sitting for long stretches of time is painful. I get some relief by leaning against the window. I will pay extra to choose my seat when I book my flight.
The back of the airplane is safest. Ex-Boeing employee here. I worked on both the 747 and 777 programs. The cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder are both in the back of the plane. The 747's black boxes are in the crew rest in the back of the plane. The 777 has the black boxes are in the ceiling above the back left door. Because of their position in the back of the plane they are statistically more likely to survive a crash.
I always prefer a window seat so I can look out at the scenery. And, as some others have mentioned, try to pick the side with the best potential views. Also, I try to time my potty breaks with the person in the aisle, so as to disturb them as little as possible when I need to go.
mentioned all the thing's i've learned to do myself. I always take window so i don't need to get up for others. I also find planes very hot so i wear very lightweight clothing and my vent is always blasting. I'll pay extra for a seat near the entrance if i have a short connection, but generally i'll pay more just to avoid an intinerary with close connections in the first place. 2.5hrs is my comfortable layover length.
True. And on the flights I’ve taken lately I have noticed that the aisle seat has less under-seat storage. My underseat bag would not fit in the space given to an aisle seat. There was room to spare in the middle and just enough room on the window. All under-seat spaces are not equal!
Nice tips, thank you. I've always preferred window seats about three quarters length inside to enable me see fellow passengers heads plus I'm addicted to viewing landscapes from a bird perspective.
I have never sat window seat yet, and also prefer the left hand side as a right hand dominant person and loved the extra leg space on the exit row I've sat in before. I would choos that one again because it's the same space as a premium seat without the extra cost in my opinion.
Interesting, I'm ambidextrous and automatically always choose the right side of the plane, but never ever thought about it being less crowded , but indeed , it was always less crowded. I also intuitively always choose the same level of the plane as you do for those specific reasons, except that I do take the window seat cause it feels more like a nook
When I decided to take a window seat and then thinking about left side or right side of the aircraft, I also take into consideration the heading my flight is going to fly and the daytime. Because it can be very bothering when the sun is shining straight into the window. You will then have to close the window blind and sit at a murky wall - awkward. E.g. when flying southbound in the afternoon, I will chose the left side of the aircraft, as the sun will be on the right side of the aircraft. Of course this only makes sense on short or medium haul flights.
I had 2 flights this weekend. I am a nervous flyer and haven’t flown for years, so my husband chose seats near the wing, (nice and stable) but not at the exit (too much opportunity to dwell on an emergency and freak out) and a middle seat (could lean over him and look out if I wanted to, but didn’t have to face the height if I felt wobbly) and being wedged between two people was oddly comforting. BUT we didn’t know the seats didn’t recline, and far worse for me there were no air conditioning nozzles so I was absolutely roasting and miserably hot! At least I know for next time! 😊✈️
On your next flight bring a small refillable plastic spray bottle with you. It can be filled up with tap or mineral water after you've passed security check, and feels great when sprayed on the face while on the plane. But please try not to spray on your seat neighbours 😏..... unless you're asked to do so.....
I used to fly a lot when in the military. I must say, I never thought that I'd become a "window guy", but I like it because it grants me nice views. In my earlier flying days, I was flying out of Richmond International, then called Byrd Airport, and I had an aisle seat. We hit severe turbulence, and it caused the cockpit doors to open and we all could see the pilots literally wrestling with the controls to maintain flight of the aircraft. Not something I wanted to see. Now military flight (MAC), I've flown on the C-5 Galaxy (cargo) which has "no windows" for passengers. We rode in a capsule and the seating was arranged backwards (safety reasons). You got earplugs, a box lunch, and a blanket. I loved it! Try that for 9 1/2 hours. For $40 round trip (then)...not bad at all!
On anything wider than a 767 or Airbus A300/310/330/340, my favorite economy seats are the last 2-3 rows where seating goes from 9 or 10 abreast to 7 or 8 abreast. In the case of the 747, the last 3 rows are in a 2-4-2 configuration and window seat occupants have a little extra stretch room between the seats & windows.
My husband and I both prefer Aisle people when we fly coach. We choose seats across the aisle from one another to accommodate this. If we are flying First Class, then he will take the window and I still like the aisle, but since the seats are just 2 in a row, no one has to be stuck in the middle.
If you ever fly a night flight Beijing to Copenhagen (or something similar to the north) around end June take the window seat on the right side. Once I left Beijing around 2-3:am and most of the 10 hour flight I had the most beautiful sunrise. I normally else chose site so I do not sit in the sunny site. Sometimes I prefer aisle other times window site. It depends on where the flight go and if there will be beautiful nature to watch.
Same thing flying overnight from Japan to Newark in the summer - the sun is constantly rising on the horizon and the pink reflection off of the Canadian lakes is spectacular. Plus the outside lighting is dim, so you won't wake or bother the passengers around you by opening the window shade one quarter or half way.
All my flights are long haul international flights. I travel from California to India. I always had a preference for aisle seats. I once got stuck between two rather large gentlemen for 16 hours. I make a point to select my seat in advance since then. Madam, thus video has bren very helpful. Do you have a preference for the make / model of an airplane ? Do you have any favourite airplanes ? Mine is the Airbus A 380.
Exactly the same as you!!! Used to be back of the bus talking to the staff and getting a drink .....always loved to be back of the bus ....but often had a fan club accumulating around me after dinner and before landing..... so found eventually that half way up the aisle gets less congested!!
I’m quite tall and thought the aisle seats would be better because I could stretch my legs… buuuut then the flight attendants almost always knock their trolleys against my knee when I fall asleep😅 My knees always touch the front seat in regular economy seats, so I’m very grateful for premium economy!🙌🏻 Window seat all the way🤣✨
I just want to say I love your content and enthusiasm so much, Megan! You really think of the details and alternatives in your suggestions. Thanks for all your travel advice!
I like aisle seats because I really have a hard time sleeping on planes, so I might as well be able to get up when I want. I also like 3/4 back, I don't want to be too close to the bathroom, but I don't like making that long trek back either.
In terms of which side of the plan to pick I always take into consideration where the sun will be. I like having the window shade up and if I'm on the more shaded side of the plane you get less glare.
I will always, choose the aisle and last row seats as I've had enough trauma of kids kicking my seat from the back. Although missing out on the window view sucks but I tend to fall asleep before take off / during landing and I would get waken up by the crew members just to open the window. So nope, forever aisle and last XD I like that I can have space to stretch on the one side of me.
Great video Megan! As a longtime airline industry employee I have never lost the love of flying and prefer the window seat. I’ve never understood why some people get on and automatically close the shade. I will say that exit rows were never a problem for me but 757’s have that mid-cabin door in economy (Y). I sat next to that door as a nonrev and it was COLD! I was able to move about half way into the flight as the airplane was only about half full on a domestic flight from LGA. I had a similar seat at the rear of a much newer A321 and had no problems at all. The legroom was wonderful!
Another disadvantage of seats toward the back is most meal choices may be gone by the time the food cart gets to you. I ran into this on a UA flight from Delhi. Perhaps meal selection could be built into the seat location. I would like to know where the line between meat seats and vegan seats is before selecting seats.
I actually love the back of the plane the most. I actually like the fact that I am able to get to the bathroom easily. I like the fact that I am not rushed by anyone behind me to get my stuff or having people shove past me because the need to catch a connection or whatever the reason. I am also not bumped by people who are getting on the plane either as I am trying to get my kids settles safely. Plus the whole safer thing is a thing for me too
+I used to want the window seat, but over the last several flights I have changed my mind. I always try to get the aisle seat, and since my husband is big, I have him get the aisle seat across from me so that we are not uncomfortable, especially on long flights. We are flying to London to get to our cruise, so this is going to be a must.
Since most of my flights are during the day, I will also figure out where the sun will be in the sky compared to the direction of the plane for the majority if it's flight. That way I don't have to keep my window shade down because the sun is shining directly in.
I usually choose an aisle seat so that I can get up at will and not rely on other people who may even be asleep. However, on a 737 (Ryanair, anway) I like seat 1A because it has nothing in front of it and I I love being the first off the plane - and that's not just because I like to be first in the queue at immigration (which is nice), but I like to be able to stretch my legs and walk briskly after sitting still on a plane and not have to walk at everyone else's speed.
I wish the flight attendants would say the seat numbers of where the window and wing exits are. That would give us some useful information in case of a real emergency. They are different on different planes, so I count how many seats are between me and the two nearest exits, forward and aft. I do this myself, but I think it's important information that could easily be included in the safety briefing. Flight attendants' primary job is safety, and this could help some pax know which direction to go.
It is amazing how you think of so many nuances to consider regarding choosing a seat including turbulance, priority of unloading plane, and inconvienences. Your tips are quite practical. As for wanting to know what's going on in the plane, I think you have a mild case of fomo, aha! :))
Questions about the left side and right side of the plane; if you want to get a good view from your window seat of the city/state/country that you are traveling to, which side of the plane is more desired to look out the window? Between the left and right side based on the position of the sun, which side has less of the sunlight so that it will not bother you? I used to love the window seats. I always asked for a window seat, but this might change where I sit on my next trip after my last flight experience last year. What happened was I had constanly getting up to use the bathroom and in this paticular flight I had the whole row to myself, but my seat was still a window seat and getting up was such a hassel and I had trouble getting up while holding on to the seat in front of me for support. So after that flight, I said no more sitting next to the window With that said here is another question; should I take the aisle seat from now on, and what are the benefits to sit in the aisle?
I always choose aisles to be able to stretch my legs, and always on the side away from the sun. In case the window passenger has the shade open, there is less chance of sun on my face if I want to snooze.
Another good tip is to check what air craft is being used for the flight. Some A/C have the 2-3-2 configuration in economy like the B767 and I always try to get a pair for the 2 of us if the flight is more than 3 hours.
there’s a little trick that consists of if you travel alone, choosing the middle seat, probably one of the two seats you have on the right or left, are going to be empty and then, you change to that one, leaving the empty one in the middle and getting more space between the two passengers in the row traveling more comfortable. But of course It’s a bet you have to risk and it doesn’t always work out, but sometimes it does.
We did it the other way around. When traveling with a friend, pick the two aisle seats of the middle section (in a 3-3-3 configuration) and hope that the middle seat between you stays empty. It doesn't happen often these days, but on our last return flight, we did have it.
On an A321 or similar, I choose the middle seat and the window for my wife, behind the exit row. The window seat has nothing in front so plenty of legroom for my wife who has long legs. I have a seat in front of me so there is a place to put my laptop bag. The only downside is that, because it is technically a bulkhead seat, it is slightly narrower due to the tray in the arm rest, plus the arm doesn't lift for cuddling.
There are aisle seats that have an obstruction underneath the seat in front where you can’t really put your personal bag underneath. Is there a way to figure out which/where these aisle seats are located?
Thank you for the excellent tips. One thing I would like to add is when setting at the back .Check what plane you will be on as planes that have rear mounted engines can be very noisy at the back. Also you can get the smell of jet fuel also
Thanks for your flight tips. I'll keep them in mind the next time I fly. I prefer window seats on short flights and aisle seats on longer flights. You're correct about the seats that don't recline. I had the unfortunate experience of booking a flight to find my seat didn't recline. It wasn't in the back of the plane or at the exit. The seat was just broken. That flight was totally uncomfortable.
Several years ago, I attended a conference in Miami with some coworkers. On the return trip, I was the only one not upgraded to first class. I was also the only one not hungover (or maybe still drunk😂). We hit heavy turbulence which I barely noticed in my seat near the wing. My colleagues were decidedly green when disembarking.
I flew to Europe over 100 times in my lifetime, that is 200+ crossings of the Atlantic, I only fly window so I can squeeze my little pillow onto the window and sleep a good 8 hours. As far as coast-to-coast flights, my preference is an aisle seat, unless it is a redeye flight, then a window seat is a must. I never take sleeping pills, but a regular Adville is a good help.
On ĺate evening flight when I know the flight is not full I choose some times a middle seat, normaly people will not choose an aisle or window if there is someone in a middle seat. On day flights I choose an aisle seat.
I always pick the window seat the left side of the plane coming out of San Diego, we can look at the city as you take off. Short fight between San Diego and Houston and was like a sitting left side of plane comes in the same evil looking at Coronado Bridge.
Never sit at the bulkhead - Save those spots for people who use the lock-in bassinets for babies :-) We used them once when our baby was little. It was so handy! But if you sit there, you will be closer to babies (noise) and because there is a bit of space - people stand in your space while waiting for the toilet. People kept standing right in front of us and stretching and it was pretty uncomfortable for us!
I have been devouring your vids. My last flight from IND to MAN I selected all port side window seats 4 months early for all 46 hrs of the flights to & from. Delta blessed me with all middle seats for a reason never given. It was my rule I was taking both armrests. They did put me in the middle of an older couple for a 16 hr leg so that was an ez swap. I still get a little fired up thinking about it.
Upgrade, upgrade, upgrade any way you can. It's well worth the $35 for the extra 6'" of pitch if you are tall and you knees hit the seat back in economy/ I fly every 90 day and I upgrade to premium economy. I always choose an aisle seat over the wing.
I agree 100%. What's awkward though is when people ask to trade seats. I simply tell them I paid to upgrade to that seat. Luckily it doesn't happen too often.
Window my favorite.however if not available im ok with aisle too..but middle seat is disaster.tip:in some flights last few rows have only 2 seats at left and 2 at right (no middle seat)and its perfect if you are couple or if you wanna avoid crowd .its near to toilet too and flight attendants near to serve you immediately
New to the channel this video is very helpful for me now that I have been traveling San Francisco the Philippines and Thailand I see I no longer care for the window seat. Also with my flights being rather long it would be better for me to travel at least premium economy,great video.
I've got well over 5 million miles and just found you today! Great channel. One consideration: Including time-stamps statistically hurts your viewing time. Consider discontinuing them. (Saw that on Sean Cannell's Think Media channel.)
I usually prefer an aisle seat. I like the freedom of getting up whenever I can. One thing I also take into account is the time of day and position of the sun. I try to sit on the opposite side of the plane to get away from the glare
Another reason to choose the right or left side of the plane is the sun. Someone who had often flown LHR to SFO the sun is brighter and hotter on the left side (south side) especially if you choose the window seat.
Can’t you just close the window shade? I hate all that glare anyway and find it annoying to find a person controlling the shade but sleeping all the way. Just close the darned thing, please!
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CLEAN YOUR LAPTOP !!
When I first started flying, I always grabbed a window seat. But...after then having to travel for work on almost a weekly basis for 3+ years, I decided the aisle seat was better for me as I had full control of things if I needed a bathroom break, just a walk around or something from my carry on.
I'm a disabled Vietnam Veteran who fly's back home to the USA to visit from Sydney (14 hours) ... so after 50 years of flying from my Army (I was a paratrooper so getting off was quick on those flights🤣) and DOD around the States and the odd NATO country.. So I just sit and wait for plane to pretty much clear before getting off... also if I get right off, I'm still waiting for my luggage to appear on the baggage carousel....
I sit as far back as possible to have easier access to a bathroom. Also, we frequently fly Southwest, which has open seating, and being far back increases the chance that the third seat in our row will go unoccupied. As for getting off the plane earlier, who cares, we all wind up at the baggage carousel together anyway.
Your right. I’m the type of traveler who wants to board and exit last
Open seating? I've never heard of this before. How does it work?
@@Sdority905 Usually this means you pick your seat once you are on the plane. Those boarding first have lots to choose from, while the last passengers to board need to look for whatever is left.
I never understand all those people who bum rush the gate to board or try to bum rush off the plane. We all have assigned seats and we’re all getting on the plane! And if you have a tight connection try speaking to the FA who can arrange to get you off earlier.
On international flights sitting in the back is the worst because you will end up in the very last of the line going thru custom
Always an aisle person. Also love the 1st row of seats behind 1st on Alaska. They don’t have bulkhead wall so plenty of room for legs but they do have trays in arm rest, making arm rests solid. No strangers thigh against you!
I'm a frequent bathroom user, so the aisle seat is definitely my choice. If you have a motion sickness problem, DON'T sit all the way at the back. Also, some airlines run out of food choices by the time they get to you, for example, chicken or beef...?😁 Thanks for the tip on Seat Guru! Never knew it exists
Seat guru is good. There’s a competitor website; I can’t remember the name. 😅
I do have one friend that prefers a middle seat because she isn't a fan of flying. She didn't want to be near the window because she didn't want to look out and see how high up she was and she feared sitting on the aisle would make her feel exposed and anxious. I sat on the aisle, she sat in the middle and it acted for her in the way a weighted blanket can for those with anxiety or other sleep related problems can. She felt a bit more protected and enclosed so she didn't think so much about her various fears of flying. She's still very much fearful of flying (white knuckled the arm rest and my hand during takeoff and landing) but she was able to reload a little during the flight. That's the only time I've ever had someone prefer the middle seat.
I imagine having you next to her was very reassuring. Safe travels, Amorelle.
Two other considerations that you missed that I think are worth mentioning. 1) Some planes have no windows in a row (for example row 24) because this is where the AC ducts come up to feed the overhead vents. This is another reason to check the seat rating web site for your specific plane. 2) I like window seats for the view and head rest. Think about where the sun will be during your flight so you don't have the heat of or have to look at the sun (don't forget it is always a sunny day above the clouds). So for example on a SB flight in the morning, WB flight mid day or a NB flight in the evening, I like the right side of the plane. As a bonus when flying on SW where I pick any open seat when I board I will check the wind direction at the airports. For example at my home airport of IND, if the wind is coming from the SW, I'll sit on the left side of the plane to get a view of downtown Indy on the glidepath in. (Yes I have been accused by friends of over thinking things)
On steamships going from England to India the word "posh" (which in England came to mean fancy)was invented. P port O outbound S starboard H homebound, so I don't think you are overthinking at all. They chose those cabins on the boat to avoid the sweltering sun in the days before air conditioning. :)
Great help, thank you very much.
@@lillianliber1798 I love this! What a treat to learn where that word, posh, came from. I plan to dazzle my dinner partners with this tidbit of esoterica.
@@lillianliber1798 I did not know where that word came from, but how interesting to learn something new. Thank you
sucks that seatguru doesnt say if the window seat actually has a window now I'll just have to lucky
It's amazing to me that of all the times I've flown; I never really cared about where I sat. I'm not picky, I'm not a complainer, I find the cheapest fare and remind myself that WE WILL ALL arrive at the same time.
Keep telling yourself that on a 14 hour flight
irrelevant; because would still all arrive at the same time.
@@cjdr.4145It was never about arriving before everybody else. It's about your comfort during a long flight. There's a huge difference between arriving feeling fresh vs feeling groggy because your seat was uncomfortable
@@tf2368😅😅😅😅😅 for sure
I always like seating at the window seat because I always like to look out and take pictures or videos. As for which side of the plane I'll be seating it depends which direction the plane is flying. If it's flying east to west, then I'll sit on the right side. West to east, I'll sit on the left side. It's more of avoiding where the sun is when flying during middle of the day. I didn't mind at first but sometimes I get a little heated up when the sun is hitting me. It gets uncomfortable for a while. I wished there are more planes that has only 2 seats on the side instead of 3. It's hard to find those anymore.
Oh yes. My wife and I really miss the older MD-80s with their 2 x 3 seating configuration. I like windows and she likes aisles, so the two seats on one side were perfect.
We are all trying to sleep...and your like "oh look..another cloud...wheee"
If I don't get to sit at the front of the plane, we're not going anywhere. I'm the Captain...
😁
lol
Funny!! 😆
Korny
Ya right…. 🙄
Good job thanks. A couple of extra points and mainly pertaining to longer than short flights. 1) If you pick a window seat, I don't, and it's daytime outside the attendant will ask you to "darken" it so pax can watch the screens. 2) Especially on larger aircraft, space under the seat ahead of you is used for the entertainment centre electronics box and I have no accurate idea how this can be avoided. BTW rear sets don't experience less turbulence however, the plane rotates around the wing and centre of gravity thereby accentuating the angular movement at the rear.
I always prefer the aisle seat because if it is a very long flight sitting next to the window can have disadvantages if the passenger in the row go to sleep and you have to wake them up to go to the toilet and if you have any digestive issues on board , using the toilet multi times during the flight can be a real problem getting past other passengers if sitting in the inner location next to the widow , also the aisle is closest to the crew and looking at menus , getting served or asking questions is made easier and access to your bags is much easier .
The front of the plane is far better because usually you are off the plane much quicker when it lands if the rear stairs are not being used and this means getting to the border control area quicker and out of the airport quicker without standing in queues for longer times .
The worst seats on the plane are those next to the toilets where people are coming and going all the time and those seats right at the back of the plane against the wall which don't go back fully .
It is not wise to be the last passenger aboard the airline because sometimes the overhead lockers are fully loaded and they can take your luggage to put under the plane where the risk of it being lost is possible .
On many, if not most, planes these days, the aisle seats have less space under the seat for your feet or personal item. As to bulkhead seats, you also have to be aware of whether that particular bulkhead has the crib attachment. On many airlines, those are located on the center bulkhead and starboard side bulkhead in each economy cabin. Two other big considerations about which side of the plane to choose: 1) if one side would have a particularly great view upon takeoff or landing - or even while flying (like over the Grand Canyon), and/or 2) if you want to remain comfortable temperature-wise during the flight and/or to be able to sleep regardless of what other people near you do with their window shades, you want to avoid the side which would be sunward during the flight.
I always book 3 months earlier and i always pick the premiere seating bulkhead row usually about $100 per ticket more but for a 14 hour flight its definitely worth it. I like the isle seat and my wife loves the window seat. We never had any problems stowing our bags under our seat or above.
One thing you didn't mention which may not be of concern to a seasoned traveller like you but would mean a lot to most people who are travelling for pleasure and like to take photos, vlog, make insta stories etc. Depending on where you are going a window seat will give you great opportunities for taking some post-able videos and photos. If you are going to Paris, just before landing you get nice views, in Norway, I found that both take-offs and and landings from Oslo and Bergen provided me with some lovely shots and even in the middle of the journey there were some mountains that were much appreciated by my friends when they saw the video taken on my phone. So, consider your destination and the time of day when you would take off or land there.
Another thing to consider about aisle seats: your arm and shoulder often get bumped by passengers walking by, and by the drink/food carts. And if you sit towards the back of the plane you'll end up getting your drink and food served last; you'll have to wait a long time for a beverage or snacks/food.
I’m flying to Germany in September and as I’m paying dirt cheap air ticket, I would only choose the seat during check in and I might sneak some food onto the plane as I don’t want to pay for it. Haha. This video is great!
Have fun! I always bring snacks too. A plane essential!
It’s perfectly fine to bring food on the plane.
@@PortableProfessional The airline is Scoot and they have a policy of no outside food and beverage. I might sneak in some fast food and chocolate bar on board. Middle row Aisle left seat is my go to always. Hope I manage to pick on during check in!
You can actually bring food..from home. Please no fish or tuna!😬🤢🫢
@@toosexy12jmb or onions!
For me being able to get up and move around is critical for long flights so I always choose the aisle. I’ve even changed the days I fly in order to get an aisle seat but I have a flexible schedule. I also try to be near the front because I often have a connecting flight and want the extra time. Even if I don’t it’s annoying having to wait to get off the plane.
I’m a window flyer. I like the view and having something to lean on when I sleep. I never thought about the left vs right side of the plane - thanks so much for the tip!
My pleasure! Enjoy the view!
I never thought about my arm like that so that’s great information to half and I will readjust my favorite spot which is usually the second. I’ll on the plane right side. I like to be in the aisle because I don’t like to have to ask people to get up and I like to work while I fly. I fly a lot and have flown all my life so this is really good tips. Thank you very much for consolidate them all in one place. At least quite a few good tips.
I have a left knee that hurts whenever I'm seated in a particular position for a long period. As such, I always look out for an aisle seat (usually H) on the right side of the plane so I can easily stretch my left leg and more importantly, get up to take a stroll to ease up the leg stiffness.
I know how it feels mine is on d right leg pain so isle seat on d left side most suitable for me and upgrade to extra leg room esp international flights 👍
@@bootscanlas9995 Good tips.Dreading sitting for 5 hours with painful knee (mostly right side) wondering if I am allowed to use my cane on the plane aisles
One important consideration you missed is there is more engine noise on the back seats. This is especially important on long flights where you want to sleep. I always try to choose a seat ahead of the wings.
Some might actually like the sound to fall asleep with 😆
I like to watch the scenery go by, so I choose a window seat on the north side of the plane, which means: right side westbound; left side eastbound. That way I don't have the sun beating in on me or in my eyes when I try to watch the scenery out the window.
my son loves the middle seat. he gets to snuggle with either me or my wife anytime he wants..love every second of it always.
I haven't flown much and the flights I've taken so far haven't been longer than 3-5 hours. I've had aisle seats before and I will avoid them at all costs! I had 2 aisle seats on my last trip and it was the worst! Everybody and their grandmother decided to walk up and down the aisles bumping on me, and even the flight attendants hit my elbow with their cart twice. It was awful, no matter how small I tried to make myself in those seats.
I prefer the window seats. I get a view, a place to rest my head, and best of all no disturbances. In short flights I don't have to get up to the restroom and I don't have to put up with being hurt by the traffic from the aisle seat.
Good information but frequent fliers learn these pretty quickly. I am right handed and don’t work on a computer during the flight. Not big issue but I choose a right hand aisle seat because I don’t want someone walking by hitting my arm while I eat or drink.
Great tips. I suggest using different words than right or left side of the plane, unless you say something like, left while facing forward.
I started watching your videos, to know if i am doing the right thing everytime i travel internationally. To my surprise almost everything you mentioned are the ones i am actually doing, Seating at the back, how to book flights etc. I guess i am doing it right & it works actually. I am now one of your your "subscribers"...Thank You, Keep it Up!!!
Welcome to the channel!!
I'm taking my first ever international flight in 2 weeks. 8 hours each way. I've selected window seats 3/4 the way back. For variety I selected the right side going and the left side coming home. I'll see how I go for comfort 😊
How was it?
@@ItalianJew Really good. Plenty of legroom on PAL
@@normm cheers
“Right side going and left side coming home” means you’ll get exactly the same views both ways!
@@JulieWallis1963 Not really a problem as they always make you put the window shades down anyway so nothing to see 🤔
I flew to London on a 787 in the very back row. It had a closet behind it, not a bathroom, and the seats did recline. It was a great seat because I could recline without being in someone else's space, and because the bathroom wasn't there the traffic was low. I did check seatguru before i booked.
The big negative to this seat was that because the airplane is composite and more flexible a little turbulence made the tail wag side to side the whole flight. My head was going left right left right the whole way.
The way back was smooth so that ride was good.
YES INDEED. 14.5 hour flight from LAX back home & we asked for the exit row seats & were with the toilets. No big deal - except it becomes a place for people to chat at 0200. After a delayed take off we had a few screaming kids to entertain us all the way. I invested in Ear Plugs for the next flights then went Business Class Only. Domestic I prefer an aisle seat only - even in Business Class.
I am traveling to Vietnam in January. I went on seatguru before i watched your video. I always take an aisle. Especially on long haul flights. I paid $15 just to book row 25. My lucky number and i didn't want to chance not getting an aisle for the long ride.
Thank you!
Most of my flights are with in those 2 hrs so yep i am one who likes the window seat
And I always choose the side opposite the sun rise or sun set :)
Thank you so much for these tips. I haven't flown as much as you have, but many of your tips I have had to learn by trial and error. How nice for newbies to learn from you before making our mistakes! Window vs aisle, for example.
With my daughter if it's long haul 3/4/3 configuration we always go with the centre 4 seat aisle since no one will cross over us to get out of their seat on a 14 hour flight.
I can relate with sitting closer to the back, so i can see what's going on in the front of the plane :). As you’ve mentioned, like about three quarters near the back. But for me, i would choose a window seat on the right side, considering it tends to be fewer people on that side. While hoping no one sits in that middle seat next to me 😅. I also like to record the take-off and landings. Fun fact: lately, I have been binge watching your videos because I'm learning a lot as a novice traveler. Even if you don’t get to read all the comments. I just want to say i sincerely appreciate you. Thank you for helping us in so many ways. God bless you. 🙏🏾
all the times I flew Delta they boarded first class and business and then from the back rows. so if you are in the back you board earlier and get first dibs on overhead spots
Good to know! Unfortunately not all airlines board in the same manner. Thanks for watching, Michelle.
@@PortableProfessional I think they changed that though. I think they are boarding from front now.
Always a window seat, and the one on the extreme left as you're walking down the aisle. I have piriformis syndrome, so sitting for long stretches of time is painful. I get some relief by leaning against the window. I will pay extra to choose my seat when I book my flight.
The back of the airplane is safest. Ex-Boeing employee here. I worked on both the 747 and 777 programs. The cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder are both in the back of the plane. The 747's black boxes are in the crew rest in the back of the plane. The 777 has the black boxes are in the ceiling above the back left door. Because of their position in the back of the plane they are statistically more likely to survive a crash.
I always prefer a window seat so I can look out at the scenery. And, as some others have mentioned, try to pick the side with the best potential views. Also, I try to time my potty breaks with the person in the aisle, so as to disturb them as little as possible when I need to go.
mentioned all the thing's i've learned to do myself. I always take window so i don't need to get up for others. I also find planes very hot so i wear very lightweight clothing and my vent is always blasting. I'll pay extra for a seat near the entrance if i have a short connection, but generally i'll pay more just to avoid an intinerary with close connections in the first place. 2.5hrs is my comfortable layover length.
One other benefit of the middle seat is that there's often more room for personal item storage under the seat in front of you.
True. And on the flights I’ve taken lately I have noticed that the aisle seat has less under-seat storage. My underseat bag would not fit in the space given to an aisle seat. There was room to spare in the middle and just enough room on the window. All under-seat spaces are not equal!
Thanks for sharing. I never would have thought of that.
NOT A CHANCE... Under the seat in front of me is where my feet go.!
Nice tips, thank you. I've always preferred window seats about three quarters length inside to enable me see fellow passengers heads plus I'm addicted to viewing landscapes from a bird perspective.
I have never sat window seat yet, and also prefer the left hand side as a right hand dominant person and loved the extra leg space on the exit row I've sat in before. I would choos that one again because it's the same space as a premium seat without the extra cost in my opinion.
Thanks for watching!
Interesting, I'm ambidextrous and automatically always choose the right side of the plane, but never ever thought about it being less crowded , but indeed , it was always less crowded. I also intuitively always choose the same level of the plane as you do for those specific reasons, except that I do take the window seat cause it feels more like a nook
When I decided to take a window seat and then thinking about left side or right side of the aircraft, I also take into consideration the heading my flight is going to fly and the daytime. Because it can be very bothering when the sun is shining straight into the window. You will then have to close the window blind and sit at a murky wall - awkward. E.g. when flying southbound in the afternoon, I will chose the left side of the aircraft, as the sun will be on the right side of the aircraft.
Of course this only makes sense on short or medium haul flights.
I had 2 flights this weekend. I am a nervous flyer and haven’t flown for years, so my husband chose seats near the wing, (nice and stable) but not at the exit (too much opportunity to dwell on an emergency and freak out) and a middle seat (could lean over him and look out if I wanted to, but didn’t have to face the height if I felt wobbly) and being wedged between two people was oddly comforting. BUT we didn’t know the seats didn’t recline, and far worse for me there were no air conditioning nozzles so I was absolutely roasting and miserably hot! At least I know for next time! 😊✈️
On your next flight bring a small refillable plastic spray bottle with you. It can be filled up with tap or mineral water after you've passed security check, and feels great when sprayed on the face while on the plane. But please try not to spray on your seat neighbours 😏..... unless you're asked to do so.....
I'm an aisle person. I don't mind getting up for others. It's good exercise while flying.
I usually don’t mind but someone getting up more than once for a short flight (2 hours or less) is pushing it.
Same goes for me.
Megan, what about planes that have a 2-4-2 configuration in economy? What's your recommendation for those middle section seats?
I used to fly a lot when in the military. I must say, I never thought that I'd become a "window guy", but I like it because it grants me nice views. In my earlier flying days, I was flying out of Richmond International, then called Byrd Airport, and I had an aisle seat. We hit severe turbulence, and it caused the cockpit doors to open and we all could see the pilots literally wrestling with the controls to maintain flight of the aircraft. Not something I wanted to see. Now military flight (MAC), I've flown on the C-5 Galaxy (cargo) which has "no windows" for passengers. We rode in a capsule and the seating was arranged backwards (safety reasons). You got earplugs, a box lunch, and a blanket. I loved it! Try that for 9 1/2 hours. For $40 round trip (then)...not bad at all!
On anything wider than a 767 or Airbus A300/310/330/340, my favorite economy seats are the last 2-3 rows where seating goes from 9 or 10 abreast to 7 or 8 abreast. In the case of the 747, the last 3 rows are in a 2-4-2 configuration and window seat occupants have a little extra stretch room between the seats & windows.
My husband and I both prefer Aisle people when we fly coach. We choose seats across the aisle from one another to accommodate this. If we are flying First Class, then he will take the window and I still like the aisle, but since the seats are just 2 in a row, no one has to be stuck in the middle.
I love the Canuck hand gesture theatrics lispy. good tips as always for a novice traveler without 100 flights.
keep up the good work.
I was a little bit surprised by how much information you've provided. Thank you!
You are very welcome!
If you ever fly a night flight Beijing to Copenhagen (or something similar to the north) around end June take the window seat on the right side. Once I left Beijing around 2-3:am and most of the 10 hour flight I had the most beautiful sunrise.
I normally else chose site so I do not sit in the sunny site. Sometimes I prefer aisle other times window site. It depends on where the flight go and if there will be beautiful nature to watch.
Same thing flying overnight from Japan to Newark in the summer - the sun is constantly rising on the horizon and the pink reflection off of the Canadian lakes is spectacular. Plus the outside lighting is dim, so you won't wake or bother the passengers around you by opening the window shade one quarter or half way.
I prefer a colder seat, I find especially on transatlantic they overheat the cabin to an uncomfortable degree
All my flights are long haul international flights. I travel from California to India. I always had a preference for aisle seats. I once got stuck between two rather large gentlemen for 16 hours. I make a point to select my seat in advance since then. Madam, thus video has bren very helpful. Do you have a preference for the make / model of an airplane ? Do you have any favourite airplanes ? Mine is the Airbus A 380.
In my experience bulkhead seats are usually reserved for some reason. I also hate it when the seat in front is reclined.
seat defenders
@@gregh7457 Defenders?
@@smudger671 yea, you wedge these little devices into the seat back and they can't recline their seat into your face
@@gregh7457 Interesting. How does the person in front react when they can't recline their seat?
Exactly the same as you!!! Used to be back of the bus talking to the staff and getting a drink .....always loved to be back of the bus ....but often had a fan club accumulating around me after dinner and before landing..... so found eventually that half way up the aisle gets less congested!!
I’m quite tall and thought the aisle seats would be better because I could stretch my legs… buuuut then the flight attendants almost always knock their trolleys against my knee when I fall asleep😅 My knees always touch the front seat in regular economy seats, so I’m very grateful for premium economy!🙌🏻 Window seat all the way🤣✨
I just want to say I love your content and enthusiasm so much, Megan! You really think of the details and alternatives in your suggestions. Thanks for all your travel advice!
I like aisle seats because I really have a hard time sleeping on planes, so I might as well be able to get up when I want. I also like 3/4 back, I don't want to be too close to the bathroom, but I don't like making that long trek back either.
In terms of which side of the plan to pick I always take into consideration where the sun will be. I like having the window shade up and if I'm on the more shaded side of the plane you get less glare.
Thanks for watching!
I will always, choose the aisle and last row seats as I've had enough trauma of kids kicking my seat from the back. Although missing out on the window view sucks but I tend to fall asleep before take off / during landing and I would get waken up by the crew members just to open the window. So nope, forever aisle and last XD I like that I can have space to stretch on the one side of me.
Thanks for watching! Safe travels.
When taking off from and landing in Bermuda, I prefer choosing the sides that give me the view of the island.
Window seat on long haul. Have figured out my sleeping game, aisle on short flights, unless I'm flying into a particularly scenic airport/city.
Great video Megan! As a longtime airline industry employee I have never lost the love of flying and prefer the window seat. I’ve never understood why some people get on and automatically close the shade. I will say that exit rows were never a problem for me but 757’s have that mid-cabin door in economy (Y). I sat next to that door as a nonrev and it was COLD! I was able to move about half way into the flight as the airplane was only about half full on a domestic flight from LGA. I had a similar seat at the rear of a much newer A321 and had no problems at all. The legroom was wonderful!
Thank you so much! Happy travels!
Another disadvantage of seats toward the back is most meal choices may be gone by the time the food cart gets to you. I ran into this on a UA flight from Delhi.
Perhaps meal selection could be built into the seat location.
I would like to know where the line between meat seats and vegan seats is before selecting seats.
I actually love the back of the plane the most. I actually like the fact that I am able to get to the bathroom easily. I like the fact that I am not rushed by anyone behind me to get my stuff or having people shove past me because the need to catch a connection or whatever the reason. I am also not bumped by people who are getting on the plane either as I am trying to get my kids settles safely. Plus the whole safer thing is a thing for me too
I have often chosen an exit seat and paid for it because of the leg room but I do like the other strategies you mentioned and will use some of them.
I've gladly paid for exit row seat many times to Asia from U.S.. The seat at far end of bulkhead looked good to though for tall people.
+I used to want the window seat, but over the last several flights I have changed my mind. I always try to get the aisle seat, and since my husband is big, I have him get the aisle seat across from me so that we are not uncomfortable, especially on long flights. We are flying to London to get to our cruise, so this is going to be a must.
Since most of my flights are during the day, I will also figure out where the sun will be in the sky compared to the direction of the plane for the majority if it's flight. That way I don't have to keep my window shade down because the sun is shining directly in.
I usually choose an aisle seat so that I can get up at will and not rely on other people who may even be asleep.
However, on a 737 (Ryanair, anway) I like seat 1A because it has nothing in front of it and I I love being the first off the plane - and that's not just because I like to be first in the queue at immigration (which is nice), but I like to be able to stretch my legs and walk briskly after sitting still on a plane and not have to walk at everyone else's speed.
I wish the flight attendants would say the seat numbers of where the window and wing exits are. That would give us some useful information in case of a real emergency. They are different on different planes, so I count how many seats are between me and the two nearest exits, forward and aft. I do this myself, but I think it's important information that could easily be included in the safety briefing. Flight attendants' primary job is safety, and this could help some pax know which direction to go.
It is amazing how you think of so many nuances to consider regarding choosing a seat including turbulance, priority of unloading plane, and inconvienences. Your tips are quite practical. As for wanting to know what's going on in the plane, I think you have a mild case of fomo, aha! :))
Questions about the left side and right side of the plane; if you want to get a good view from your window seat of the city/state/country that you are traveling to, which side of the plane is more desired to look out the window?
Between the left and right side based on the position of the sun, which side has less of the sunlight so that it will not bother you?
I used to love the window seats. I always asked for a window seat, but this might change where I sit on my next trip after my last flight experience last year. What happened was I had constanly getting up to use the bathroom and in this paticular flight I had the whole row to myself, but my seat was still a window seat and getting up was such a hassel and I had trouble getting up while holding on to the seat in front of me for support. So after that flight, I said no more sitting next to the window
With that said here is another question; should I take the aisle seat from now on, and what are the benefits to sit in the aisle?
I always choose aisles to be able to stretch my legs, and always on the side away from the sun. In case the window passenger has the shade open, there is less chance of sun on my face if I want to snooze.
Another good tip is to check what air craft is being used for the flight. Some A/C have the 2-3-2 configuration in economy like the B767 and I always try to get a pair for the 2 of us if the flight is more than 3 hours.
Nice! Thanks for watching, Stan.
there’s a little trick that consists of if you travel alone, choosing the middle seat, probably one of the two seats you have on the right or left, are going to be empty and then, you change to that one, leaving the empty one in the middle and getting more space between the two passengers in the row traveling more comfortable.
But of course It’s a bet you have to risk and it doesn’t always work out, but sometimes it does.
Empty seats???? Haven’t seen one of those for years.
We did it the other way around. When traveling with a friend, pick the two aisle seats of the middle section (in a 3-3-3 configuration) and hope that the middle seat between you stays empty. It doesn't happen often these days, but on our last return flight, we did have it.
On an A321 or similar, I choose the middle seat and the window for my wife, behind the exit row. The window seat has nothing in front so plenty of legroom for my wife who has long legs. I have a seat in front of me so there is a place to put my laptop bag. The only downside is that, because it is technically a bulkhead seat, it is slightly narrower due to the tray in the arm rest, plus the arm doesn't lift for cuddling.
There are aisle seats that have an obstruction underneath the seat in front where you can’t really put your personal bag underneath. Is there a way to figure out which/where these aisle seats are located?
Thank you for the excellent tips. One thing I would like to add is when setting at the back .Check what plane you will be on as planes that have rear mounted engines can be very noisy at the back. Also you can get the smell of jet fuel also
Thanks for your flight tips. I'll keep them in mind the next time I fly. I prefer window seats on short flights and aisle seats on longer flights. You're correct about the seats that don't recline. I had the unfortunate experience of booking a flight to find my seat didn't recline. It wasn't in the back of the plane or at the exit. The seat was just broken. That flight was totally uncomfortable.
Several years ago, I attended a conference in Miami with some coworkers. On the return trip, I was the only one not upgraded to first class. I was also the only one not hungover (or maybe still drunk😂). We hit heavy turbulence which I barely noticed in my seat near the wing. My colleagues were decidedly green when disembarking.
I like the window seat. It is least disturbed. I rest best this way. I don’t mind asking others to move if I need to visit the bathroom which is rare
Happy travels, Kaby!
I flew to Europe over 100 times in my lifetime, that is 200+ crossings of the Atlantic, I only fly window so I can squeeze my little pillow onto the window and sleep a good 8 hours. As far as coast-to-coast flights, my preference is an aisle seat, unless it is a redeye flight, then a window seat is a must. I never take sleeping pills, but a regular Adville is a good help.
That's a lot of flights, Maurice! Thanks for watching!
I used to like the windows seat, but have to agree that with regular traveling I've started to prefer the aisle seat.
Same! I like that I can get up without disturbing anyone!
@@PortableProfessional that's the exact same reason I prefer it.
On ĺate evening flight when I know the flight is not full I choose some times a middle seat, normaly people will not choose an aisle or window if there is someone in a middle seat. On day flights I choose an aisle seat.
Awesome video, very informative, great job. Thanks for sharing, big liked.
I always pick the window seat the left side of the plane coming out of San Diego, we can look at the city as you take off. Short fight between San Diego and Houston and was like a sitting left side of plane comes in the same evil looking at Coronado Bridge.
Never sit at the bulkhead - Save those spots for people who use the lock-in bassinets for babies :-) We used them once when our baby was little. It was so handy! But if you sit there, you will be closer to babies (noise) and because there is a bit of space - people stand in your space while waiting for the toilet. People kept standing right in front of us and stretching and it was pretty uncomfortable for us!
I have been devouring your vids. My last flight from IND to MAN I selected all port side window seats 4 months early for all 46 hrs of the flights to & from. Delta blessed me with all middle seats for a reason never given. It was my rule I was taking both armrests. They did put me in the middle of an older couple for a 16 hr leg so that was an ez swap. I still get a little fired up thinking about it.
Upgrade, upgrade, upgrade any way you can. It's well worth the $35 for the extra 6'" of pitch if you are tall and you knees hit the seat back in economy/ I fly every 90 day and I upgrade to premium economy. I always choose an aisle seat over the wing.
I just flew Delta via Air France, and it was $125 for more leg room!
@@ercokatty On AA, it's usually about $75 ( round trip) and worth every penny.
I agree 100%.
What's awkward though is when people ask to trade seats.
I simply tell them I paid to upgrade to that seat.
Luckily it doesn't happen too often.
Window my favorite.however if not available im ok with aisle too..but middle seat is disaster.tip:in some flights last few rows have only 2 seats at left and 2 at right (no middle seat)and its perfect if you are couple or if you wanna avoid crowd .its near to toilet too and flight attendants near to serve you immediately
New to the channel this video is very helpful for me now that I have been traveling San Francisco the Philippines and Thailand I see I no longer care for the window seat.
Also with my flights being rather long it would be better for me to travel at least premium economy,great video.
Glad it was helpful! Welcome to the channel.
I've got well over 5 million miles and just found you today! Great channel. One consideration: Including time-stamps statistically hurts your viewing time. Consider discontinuing them. (Saw that on Sean Cannell's Think Media channel.)
I usually prefer an aisle seat. I like the freedom of getting up whenever I can. One thing I also take into account is the time of day and position of the sun. I try to sit on the opposite side of the plane to get away from the glare
Another reason to choose the right or left side of the plane is the sun. Someone who had often flown LHR to SFO the sun is brighter and hotter on the left side (south side) especially if you choose the window seat.
Can’t you just close the window shade? I hate all that glare anyway and find it annoying to find a person controlling the shade but sleeping all the way. Just close the darned thing, please!
I always do the aisle seat I'm 5 '9" so aisle seat gives me more room to stretch and I don't have to ask people to get up if I need the bano
My favourite is window seat near the middle on the left (preferably next to the wings)