Flying can be a stressful experience, especially when the plane is packed, and personal space is limited. However, over the years, I’ve developed a strategy that almost always guarantees an empty seat next to me. If the flight isn’t full, someone is going to have an empty seat next to them, and it might as well be you! Here’s how you can increase your chances of getting that coveted extra space.
The Empty Seat Strategy
Choose Your Seats Wisely: When selecting your seats, scroll past the business and premium economy sections and head straight to the back of the plane. The key is to find an empty row and strategically choose your seats to sandwich a middle seat.
For example:
- If you’re traveling as a pair, select seats A and C in a row (leaving B empty).
- If you’re a trio, choose seats A, C, and D.
- If you’re a family of four, opt for seats A, C, D, and F.
Why This Works: Seats at the back of the plane tend to get chosen last. Many passengers avoid these seats due to potential turbulence, proximity to bathrooms, and wanting to deboard sooner. Personally, I don’t mind these minor inconveniences if it means having more space.
Middle seats are also the least desirable and are typically the last to be selected. By choosing seats that sandwich a middle seat at the back of the plane, you’re creating a less appealing option for other passengers. If the flight isn’t full, it’s highly likely that middle seat will remain empty, giving you extra room.
Flying solo? You can still use this strategy! Make a seat sandwich with another passenger who has already chosen a seat. For example, find a row where seat C is occupied, and then choose seat A. This is better than choosing A in an empty row because the likelihood of a pair filling seats B and C is higher than a single passenger filling just seat B.
Last-Minute Check
To ensure your strategy is successful, do a self check-in a few hours before your flight. This is a good time to double-check the seating arrangement. If the middle seat between you has been taken, you can still make changes and find another empty row. Most passengers don’t make changes close to the flight, so your new row will likely stay empty.
What If the Seat Gets Taken?
You might wonder, “What if someone does take that middle seat?” If this happens, offer the aisle or window seat to the stranger. Most people will be happy to swap for a more desirable seat, and you and your travel partner can still sit next to each other.
Fully Booked Planes
This strategy has worked for me on numerous occasions, but it will not work if the plane is completely full with no empty seats. In order to avoid boarding a full plane, if possible travel during non-peak times/periods.
Why This Strategy is Great
If you’re a parent traveling with a child under 2 who doesn’t have their own designated seat, having an extra seat can be essential. I’ve used this strategy to secure an empty seat next to me for my little one, making the flight 100% more enjoyable. More space means a happier child and a less stressful flight for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Getting an empty seat next to you on a plane isn’t guaranteed, but this strategy significantly increases your chances. Whether you’re looking for extra comfort or need the space for your little one, give it a try on your next flight.
Happy flying and vacationing!
Have you tried this strategy? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below.
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