We’ve all faced the nightmare of a bad plane journey before – but there’s one area of the plane that you might want to avoid if you’re looking for a relaxing trip.
Going on holiday is always fun, but especially during the chilly months when the thought of swapping the UK for somewhere warm and sunny is enough to get anyone buzzing. However, even if you’re just jetting off to somewhere in Europe, the journey isn’t always smooth sailing.
We’ve all endured the horror of a dreadful flight before. Whether it’s due to discomfort, the antics of other passengers, or anything else, it can cast a shadow over your holiday before it’s even started.
So, to help holidaymakers kick off their trips on the right foot, I decided to ask some experts about the worst place on the plane to reserve your seat – and everyone agreed on 1 key thing.
Nearly all of the experts I spoke to were in strong agreement that the very last row of the plane might not be the best choice if you’re after a peaceful journey, reports the Express.
Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, warned that those who are sensitive to turbulence will want to steer clear of this area. He pointed out: “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 emphasised the significance of being organised while booking seats on a plane. This often comes with a price tag, but if you’re anxious about securing a decent seat, then there’s a good chance it’ll be worth the investment.
The expert advised: “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.”
Izzy Nicholls, an experienced traveller and founder of road trip blog The Gap Decaders, echoed this, saying: “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.”
As you might expect, the front of the plane was identified as the best place to sit for the smoothest journey. Izzy further 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.”
Not only can the rear section of the plane be chaotic in terms of comfort, it’s also not desirable when it comes to storage space – especially if something happens and you end up boarding the plane late.
Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO and Co-Founder of luggage storage company Stasher, advised: “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.”
Travel Expert Andrea Platania from Transfeero also warned travellers to avoid the back row, 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 travelling in a group.”
However, if you’re after the seat with the most legroom, there are two specific areas that can offer the most space. Andrea revealed: “Exit-row and bulkhead seats offer more space, but they come with trade-offs: fixed armrests, limited recline, or restrictions for passengers travelling with children.”
And if you typically suffer from airsickness during turbulence and want to avoid this, then one location on the plane is best to book 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.”