Get More Legroom: Tips for Choosing the Best Airplane Seat

17 May 2025

Flying can be an exciting adventure or a dreaded necessity—depending on your seat. Nothing ruins a flight faster than being crammed into a tight space, knees pressed against the seat in front of you. If you've ever felt trapped in a sardine can at 35,000 feet, don't worry—you're not alone.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to suffer in silence (or discomfort). With a little strategy, you can snag that precious extra legroom and make your journey a whole lot more comfortable. Let’s dive into some foolproof tips for picking the best airplane seat!

Why Seat Selection Matters

Ever had a flight where you felt like a pretzel, twisting and turning for space? Or worse, you ended up in the dreaded middle seat, sandwiched between two strangers—with no armrest to claim? Yeah… not fun.

Choosing the right airplane seat isn’t just about comfort—it can also impact your flight experience in big ways. A good seat means:
- More legroom (so you don’t feel like you're stuck in a shoebox).
- Better sleep (because nobody likes being woken up by a seatmate climbing over them).
- Faster boarding and deplaning (because who enjoys waiting forever to get off the plane?).

So, how do you find that golden spot where your legs aren’t crunched, and your comfort is maximized? Let’s break it down!

1. Understand the Airplane Seating Layout

Not all plane seats are created equal. Some offer ample legroom and easy access, while others feel like a torture chamber.

Each airline and aircraft type have different layouts, so it helps to check sites like SeatGuru before booking. These sites provide seat maps and passenger reviews, helping you pinpoint the best (and worst) spots.

Key Areas to Consider:
- Exit Row Seats – More legroom but come with responsibilities (and sometimes immovable armrests).
- Bulkhead Seats – Lots of space, but no under-seat storage.
- Aisle Seats – Easy to stretch out, but expect frequent bumping from passing passengers.
- Window Seats – Great for sleeping, but limited movement.
- The Back of the Plane – Near the restrooms, last to exit, and usually noisier.

Now that you know the basics, let’s get into the juicy details.

2. Go for Exit Row Seats (If You Can Handle It)

If legroom is your top priority, exit row seats are where it’s at. Airlines design these rows with more space to allow passengers to evacuate quickly if necessary. As a bonus, you get more room to stretch your legs.

What’s the Catch?
- You must be capable of assisting in an emergency.
- Some exit row seats don’t recline, so check before you book.
- You typically can’t have carry-on bags under the seat in front of you.

If you’re fine with these trade-offs, exit row seats are a game-changer!

3. Bulkhead Seats: A Double-Edged Sword

Bulkhead seats are located directly behind partitions (like walls or curtains separating classes). They offer extra legroom and no reclining seat in front of you, making them a solid choice.

Pros:
- No passenger reclining into your space.
- More room for stretching.
- Often one of the first areas served during meal service.

Cons:
- No under-seat storage—your bag must go in the overhead bin.
- Armrests are usually immovable, limiting seat width.
- Can be located near bassinets—meaning possible crying babies.

If you don’t mind storing your carry-on overhead, bulkhead seats can be a great pick.

4. Avoid the Middle Seat at All Costs

Let’s be honest: Nobody wants the middle seat. It’s cramped, you have to battle for armrests, and stretching out? Forget about it.

If you’re stuck in one, you might as well brace yourself for an uncomfortable ride. But here’s a quick hack: If you're traveling with a companion, book the aisle and window in a three-seat row. There's a good chance the middle seat will stay empty. If someone does get assigned there, they might be happy to swap for a window or aisle.

5. Pick Aisle or Window According to Your Needs

It all comes down to personal preference.

- Love easy access to the restroom and stretching your legs? Go for an aisle seat.
- Prefer leaning against the wall and avoiding disruptions? The window seat is your best bet.

Just avoid the last row—these seats don’t recline and are almost always near the lavatories (hello, awkward standing crowds).

6. First Class vs. Economy Plus vs. Regular Economy

If you’re willing to pay extra, First Class or Business Class guarantee the best legroom and comfort. But don’t worry—comfort isn’t reserved for the wealthy!

Many airlines offer Economy Plus or Premium Economy options, which give you a few extra inches of space without breaking the bank. If you fly often, it might be worth the upgrade.

7. Check Seat Reviews Before You Book

Before locking in your seat choice, do a little research. Websites like:
- SeatGuru
- ExpertFlyer
- [Airline Websites]

These platforms provide detailed seat maps, legroom info, and passenger reviews. A two-minute search can save you hours of discomfort!

8. Book Early for the Best Selection

The earlier you book your flight, the better your seat options. Airlines assign seats on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait until check-in day to make your selection.

If your airline charges for seat selection but you’re flying long-haul, it might be worth paying to secure that premium spot.

9. Use Airline Status or Credit Card Perks

Many airlines give elite status members complimentary access to better seats, including exit rows and Economy Plus. Some travel credit cards also offer perks like priority boarding or free seat upgrades.

Before booking, check if your loyalty program or credit card offers seat selection benefits.

10. Ask Politely at Check-In or the Gate

If you weren’t able to grab your ideal seat ahead of time, don’t give up hope! Politely ask the airline staff at check-in or the gate if any better seats are available.

A friendly attitude can work wonders—gate agents might move you to a better spot, especially if the flight isn’t full.

Final Thoughts

Airplane seats can make or break your flight experience. With a little planning, you can avoid cramped quarters, snag extra legroom, and actually enjoy your journey. Whether it’s booking early, choosing exit rows, or simply asking for an upgrade, these small strategies can go a long way in improving your flight comfort.

So next time you're booking a flight, remember these tips—you’ll thank yourself when you're stretching out comfortably at cruising altitude!