How to choose the best seats for a long haul flight

Pick a comfortable seat
A long haul flight can be an arduous experience if you are not comfortable. Flights to the USA, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand can be anywhere between 8 and 23 hours long, so to avoid having a miserable time it’s vital that you choose your seat on the plane wisely. Follow these handy tips on picking the best seat for you.
 
Choose an Aisle seat
If you are tall, it might be wise to request an aisle seat. You will have more leg room on an aisle seat and will be able to stretch your legs more. Aisle seats are also a good idea if you have a weak bladder and need the toilet regularly; being able to slip out easily means you won’t bug your fellow passengers so much.
 
Sit near the doors
Taller passengers who require more leg room could also request to sit near the doors of the plane, as often this is where the seats with most leg room are. Disabled passengers may also find these the best seats to opt for.
 
Other things to consider
If you are not especially tall and not too worried about leg room, there are some other things to consider. Choosing a seat not too far away from the toilet can be handy. Does your seat have a personal video screen, or will you need to position yourself appropriately to see the communal video screen down the aisle? Do you want to be able to see out of the window?
 
Choose your seat when you book
If there are particular requirements you’d like from your seat, it’s best to specify these at the time of booking. Time is essential here as the ‘good’ seats are likely to be snapped up first. Please note that some budget airlines may offer a first-come-first-served seating plan, in which case getting the seat you want will rely on you getting onto the plan first.
 
Pay more to get more
While many people look to get the cheapest flight tickets possible in a bid to save money, when it comes to long haul flights this really needs to be balanced with considerations about your comfort. If you can afford it, travelling first class or business class will be much more comfortable, with more leg room and more amenities, including features such as fully reclining seats.
Other holiday information
How to entertain children on long flights
How to fly if you've got aerophobia
How to make flying with young children easier
How to prevent airplane sickness on long-haul flights
How to survive a long haul flight
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