How to Get A Good Seat On Your Next Flight

Everyone thinks the answer to getting a good seat is by requesting the bulkhead or asking for a free upgrade. No!!! I travel a lot and spend a lot of time in airports. I observe what really happens!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. * Never ask for a bulkhead unless your disability requires it. These seats are designated for disabled passengers. Airlines get so many requests from undeserving folks, you just become another number on a long waiting list. Instead, lock in a window or aisle seat that you prefer.
2. * Never ask for a free upgrade! Frequent flier programs and discounted first class fares have eliminated a lot of empty seats in first class. Airliners laugh at people who just ask for First Class. However, being kind in other circumstances may warrant it!
3. * Exit rows are limited. They are preferred seats because they do have more leg room and are kid free. You must be at least 15 years of age to sit at the exit row. However, you must be at the airport to get these seats to state you are willing and able to assist in an emergency. Sly tip: request an exit row for your return flight while you are checking in for your outbound flight!
4. * Make sure you have an assigned seat number if the airline you are traveling on offers it! ALWAYS check with the airline at their website or customer service after you book through other web sites! Sometimes the seat requests from these travel web sites do not go through to the actual airline. I have overheard this conversation many times at the gate!
5. * Take advantage of pre-reserved seat assignments and checking in online!
6. * Check in early when possible!
7. * If you do not have a seat assigned and are placed on a waiting list, be kind and patient! Remember the golden rule, treat others how you would like to be treated! If a good seat comes available, it will not be given to he who screams loudest!
8. * Go with the flow! If you are delayed or your itinerary changes, contact customer service after all is said and done. If you go with the flow and take advantage of what is offered at the time, you will arrive your destination, which is the whole point!
9. I have found that if you ask for a better seat after boarding has started and the airline workers are not really busy, they will then offer "no show" seats which are reserved seat assignments that other people failed to check in. Wait until boarding begins and there is no line at the desk, usually less than thirty minutes before departure.
10. * I try to be kind and patient at the airport. When I am, I notice I always end up with better seats, better customer service, and better travel experiences. Observe your surroundings, be kind, and be patient!