Some areas of the plane are more comfortable than others (Image: Constantine Johnny via Getty Images)
Going on holiday is always fun, especially during the colder months when the idea of swapping grey skies for sunshine is irresistible. However, even on short-haul journeys, it’s not always plain sailing.
Most travellers have faced the horror of a bad flight before. Whether that’s down to discomfort, inconsiderate fellow passengers, or various other issues, these experiences can ruin holidays before they begin. So, to help holidaymakers get off to the best start, I asked some travel experts about the plane seats you should avoid — and their advice was clear.
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According to the experts, the back of the plane is a no-go (Image: Getty)
Nearly every expert I asked agreed that the aircraft’s back row should be avoided if you want a smooth journey.
Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, warned that turbulence-sensitive passengers should particularly avoid this zone. He explained: “Seats at the very back are typically less desirable. They are close to the galley and restrooms, service can be slower, food choices may be limited, and it is also the area where movement during turbulence feels strongest.”
He also says it’s important to be prepared when booking seats. Whilst this often comes at a cost, passengers worried about securing good seats will find it worthwhile.
The expert continued: “Thinking about your priorities in advance also makes a difference — nervous flyers will be more comfortable over the wings, those with a tight connection should choose an aisle near the front, while couples booking a row of three might secure the window and aisle, leaving the middle free for a chance at extra space.”
Some areas of the plane are less comfortable than others (Image: Alavinphoto via Getty Images)
This was echoed by Izzy Nicholls, a travel expert and founder of road trip blog The Gap Decaders, who advised: “Seats at the back are best avoided. They’re typically noisier because of engine proximity and galley activity, and you’ll be among the last to board and leave the plane.”
Unsurprisingly, the front section of the aircraft proved to be the best location for the most pleasant journey. Izzy explained: “Travellers who want a calmer journey should book seats at the front of the plane. This area is away from restrooms and heavy foot traffic, so you’ll experience fewer interruptions.
“Choosing an aisle seat here also gives you the freedom to stretch your legs and get up easily without disturbing others. Select these placements to make long flights more comfortable and reduce the effects of motion.”
The back section of the aircraft isn’t just problematic for passenger comfort, it’s also unsuitable when it comes to luggage storage – especially if you board the plane late. Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO and Co-Founder of luggage storage firm Stasher said: “Avoid sitting near galleys and toilets, where staff members often store their things in overhead bins, leaving less space for passenger baggage.
“The last few rows are a concern because if you board late, the bins above you may be filled, which means you may have to store your luggage several rows away. Also, stay away from seats that are located behind bulkheads, as these spaces often have limited storage.”
If you’re sensitive to turbulence, you might want to avoid the back of the plane (Image: Getty)
Travel expert Andrea Platania from Transfeero also advised passengers to avoid the back row when flying, explaining: “The very last row is typically the least desirable: limited recline, proximity to bathrooms, and more cabin noise. Middle seats anywhere are usually least popular unless you’re traveling in a group.”
However, for those seeking maximum legroom, there are two particular areas which can provide the most space. Andrea said: “Exit-row and bulkhead seats offer more space, but they come with trade-offs: fixed armrests, limited recline, or restrictions for passengers traveling with children.”
And for travellers who experience airsickness during turbulence and wish to minimise this, one particular location on the aircraft is optimal for booking your seat. The expert continued: “Sit over the wings. This area is closest to the aircraft’s centre of gravity, so you’ll feel less turbulence compared to the back, where bumps are magnified.”