The middle seat on an airplane: a tight space sandwiched between strangers, often fighting over the armrests. ✈️???????? It’s the travel equivalent of being caught between a rock and a hard place! But fear not, there are strategies to help avoid this predicament. Buckle up for a journey through these middle seat escape plans. ????????????
For the jet-setters looking to master the seat selection game, we present nine strategic moves to ensure your trip remains middle-seat-free. ???????????? So sit back, relax, and enjoy our flight through these travel hacks.
1. Check-In Early: The Early Bird Avoids the Middle Seat ????⏰
As the saying goes, “The early bird catches the worm”, or in this case, a better seat! Airlines usually allow you to check-in 24 hours before your flight. Use this window of opportunity to secure an aisle or window seat, leaving the middle seat for the latecomers. ⏱️????
2. Frequent Flyer Programs: Loyalty has its rewards ????????????
Frequent flyer programs often offer early seat selection perks to their members. This means that by accumulating miles or points, you could gain the power to choose your seat ahead of the crowd. It’s like having a magic carpet that avoids the middle seat! ????????️
3. Travel with a Companion: Divide and Conquer ????????????️
Travelling with a companion can offer a strategic advantage. If you’re booking for two, choose the aisle and window seats. Solo travellers are likely to avoid booking a middle seat between two occupied seats. So, unless the flight is full, you might end up with a vacant middle seat. It’s a divide and conquer strategy, travel style! ????????
4. Pay for Seat Selection: Invest in Comfort ????????????
Many airlines allow passengers to pay a little extra for seat selection. While it’s an added cost, it can be a small price to pay for ensuring you’re not stuck in the middle. It’s like buying an insurance policy against discomfort! ????????
5. Use a Seat Alert App: Technology to the Rescue ????????????️
Seat alert apps such as ExpertFlyer can be game-changers. They notify you when your preferred seat becomes available on a flight. It’s like having a personal seat scout working for you 24/7. A digital ally in your battle against the middle seat! ????????️
6. Choose Flights Less Likely to be Full: Off-Peak Perks ????✈️????
Flights during off-peak times or days are less likely to be full. This means more empty seats and less chance of getting stuck in the middle. It’s like playing a game of musical chairs, but with fewer players! ????????
7. Check Seat Maps: Knowledge is Power ????️????????
Some booking sites provide seat maps during the booking process. Use these to identify available seats and avoid flights with only middle seats left. It’s like navigating your way to comfort! ????????️
8. Choose Airlines with Fewer Middle Seats: Fly Smart ????????????
Some airlines have fewer middle seats due to their seating configuration. For instance, JetBlue’s Embraer E190 planes have a 2-2 seating configuration, which means no middle seats! So do some research on your airline and aircraft before booking. It’s like choosing the right vehicle for a comfortable journey! ????️✈️
9. Last Minute Check-In: The Risky Gamble ⏱️????????
While it may seem counterintuitive, sometimes checking in last can work in your favor. This strategy is a bit of a gamble. If the flight isn’t full, you might score a premium seat that was left unclaimed. However, if the flight is packed, well, brace for the middle! It’s like a game of roulette, but with seats. ????✈️
