You're more likely to get better service on a plane if you sit here

Summer may be well and truly over, but that doesn’t mean none of us will be getting on a plane for business or pleasure any time soon. Whether you’re flying towards Christmas markets or chasing some winter sun this festive season, we’ve got some handy tips and tricks that will ensure your flying experience is the best it can be.

The ‘best place’ to sit on a plane varies depending on what matters to you when you’re flying. Silence? A view? Access to booze and snacks? There’s a perfect seat for everyone - to find out what seat you should select at check-in for an optimum aviation experience, read on below. 

What happens after landing is up to you, although you might also want to check out this handy tip for getting your luggage to come out first on the other side for maximum holiday efficiency. 

A (relatively) comfortable sleep

Unless you’re lucky enough to be on an empty flight where you can snag a whole row to lie down and nap on, the window seat is your best bet for snoozing. You have control of the blinds so there won’t be any unexpected light shining in your face and waking you up, nor will you have to wake up if the person next to you needs to go the toilet. Make sure you bring a travel pillow for maximum comfort. 

Bonus tip: Aeroplane engines are often situated under the wings or towards the tail of the plane, so for optimum quiet time it’s best to sit in front of the wing.

A speedy exit

If you’re the kind of person who can’t wait to get off the plane once you’ve landed, a spot on the left-hand side of the aircraft will ensure you get off quicker (and this is why we board on the left-hand side of a plane). Also, obviously, at the front (or sometimes back) of the plane. 

Optimum service

For the best access to snacks and booze, choose a seat at the back of the aircraft. Advice from a flight attendant on Oyster.com says that seats at the the back receive the most attentive service, as attendants sometimes avoid responding to call bells from the front of the plane to avoid potentially deviating from the service schedule. And most importantly, be nice!

Minimising turbulence

If you’re someone who suffers from motion sickness or perhaps a fear of flying, avoid sitting at the back of the plane. Most airline crew advise that the front of the aircraft has the least turbulence. Plus it’s usually further away from the waft of toilet. 

Legroom

The aisle seat is usually your best bet for being able to give your legs a quick stretch mid-flight, whether via sticking them out for a bit or going for a short stroll.

There is also usually more legroom on the seats by the exit-row, although you might have to pay extra for these on budget airlines. You will also need to be able and willing to help other passengers in case of an emergency. Also note that most airlines will not allow you to store luggage in the seats in front of you in the exit-rows in order to keep the aisle clear in case of an emergency landing. But if you’ve got long legs and a long haul flight, it might be worth it. 

(Images: iStock/Jakob Owens)