How to choose a seat on a plane

Advantages and disadvantages of the three options: window, center, and aisle. In any case, never near the restrooms. And for long-haul flights...

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If you have the opportunity to choose your seat on a plane, don't waste it. Airlines, constantly seeking new sources of revenue, now charge for seats, even going so far as to impose a surcharge if you want to be near your child. Even more so if you've paid for it, all you have to do is choose your seat based on a few easy-to-evaluate factors: comfort, your tastes, and even your travel habits. Each assigned seat has advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at the most important ones.

The aisle-side seat It's definitely the most comfortable, especially if you're used to standing up, and theoretically you can even stretch your legs out here. You feel less pressure from other passengers in front and behind. But there's one drawback: you have to stand up every time one of the two adjacent passengers (in the middle and by the window) needs to move.

The window seat It allows you to enjoy the view, get more light, and sleep with your head supported. But if you're afraid of flying, you'll feel the turbulence of the plane closer.

The central place In theory it is the most uncomfortable, but in practice it does not have the contraindications of the other two.

  • On long-distance journeys, avoid seats in the front rows: you'll avoid finding yourself next to a child who may cry easily.
  • On long-haul flights, it's always best to sit in the back rows, where you may even have the option to lie down.
  • Seating near the restrooms is absolutely not recommended. You'll have a hard time getting any sleep, as you'll be disturbed by the comings and goings of the restrooms and the movement of food and drink carts.
  • Exit seats offer more space in the front, but have the disadvantage of not providing space for your carry-on luggage.

Finally, we recommend the website SeatGuru.com, which contains maps and user reviews of seats by plane, flight, and airline. It may be helpful to consult it before your trip.

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