Smooth Sailing: Effortless Hacks for a Stress-Free Flight Day

17. Pre-Select Your Seat Strategically

Your seat can significantly impact your comfort, convenience, and overall flight experience—especially on long-haul trips. Instead of accepting a random assignment, take a few minutes to research and select your seat in advance. Aisle seats are great for travelers who value freedom to move around or frequent bathroom access, while window seats are perfect for those who want to sleep undisturbed or enjoy aerial views. If you're tall or crave extra legroom, exit row and bulkhead seats are worth considering—just check the seat recline and tray table placement. To avoid surprises, use websites like SeatGuru to read reviews of specific seats on your aircraft. You’ll learn whether a seat doesn’t recline, is near a noisy galley, or has reduced storage space. Also, steer clear of seats directly next to bathrooms unless you don’t mind occasional odors or constant foot traffic. Many airlines allow seat selection at booking or check-in, often at no additional charge. If you’re flexible, check in as soon as the window opens—usually 24 hours before your flight—to snag better seat options. Bonus tip: If you're traveling solo and hoping for extra space, pick a window seat toward the rear of the plane. These are typically the last to fill, increasing your chances of an empty middle seat beside you.