Will I get a better seat if I wait to check-in?

If you're traveling in basic economy, most airlines don't allow you to choose a seat during check-in for free. If you wait to check in, there is a chance that you will be assigned an extra legroom seat or even bumped up a class if those better seats haven't been assigned already.



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This seat decision usually happens at the time of booking. However, if you didn't get the option you're after then, you can always approach the counter before boarding to see if there are open seats available. Or, try asking the crew upon boarding if you can swap seats during the flight.

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Feel free to ask for the place you want. Most flight crews will be happy to accommodate your request if they can. There's also no harm in asking a fellow passenger for a seat trade. But remember to be polite and nice about it!

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Here are some guidelines:
  1. Avoid the middle seat. The best seats are the window or aisle seats toward the front of the plane. ...
  2. Sit over the wing. Sitting over the wing may help you feel less turbulence.
  3. Choose emergency exit rows. ...
  4. Take a seat in the first row.


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Best seat for peace and quiet: A seat near the front. Best seat for legroom: A bulkhead or exit-row seat. Best seat for sleeping: A window seat in a bulkhead row. Best seat for extra space without a seatmate: A seat towards the back.

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For a short-haul flight where you are only taking hand luggage, checking in online saves a lot of time and is therefore much better than checking in at the airport. If, on the other hand, you have to check in bulky luggage, it is better to use the classic check-in at the airport for security reasons.

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Checking-in online allows you to check in for your flight earlier than if you waited until you got to the airport, which means there will be more seats available to choose from.

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You then go thru a slightly shorter check in queue at most airports. Also, when you get to London, you'll find that checking-in on-line or on smartphones is actually compulsory on many flights within Europe. So I always try to check in online--with or without checked bags.

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Realistically, it's a gamble and getting upgraded to business class at the airport is pretty rare. If luxury and extra legroom is really important to you, book it in advance. However, if you're perfectly willing to fly economy class, and willing to roll the dice, a last-minute upgrade can be the cheapest option.

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Earn airline elite status The most reliable way of getting upgraded for free is to have elite status on the airline you're flying. Most airlines reward their most frequent flyers with complimentary upgrades on domestic routes.

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Whether moving from economy class to first class, business class to first class or economy class to business class, an upgrade can certainly be a nice perk to ease a long plane ride.

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Upgrade Your Air Travel: 10 Tips to Score a First-Class Seat
  1. Join airline loyalty programs.
  2. Volunteer to be bumped.
  3. Use offers from your credit cards.
  4. Book flights during off-peak times.
  5. Check for available upgrades online.
  6. Consider late flight offers.
  7. Arrive early for check-in.
  8. Bid for an upgrade.


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No jeans or trainers — so I always go for tight black trousers and a blazer or a dress. For men, chinos or trousers and a shirt are worn, one flight attendant told Who What Wear. Another flight attendant elaborated that you don't have to be on trend or wearing designer clothes.

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But getting a free upgrade is pretty unusual. And if you've got the cheek to ask at check-in you're likely to be knocked back time and time again. However, one flight attendant has explained how cabin crew can upgrade passengers or give them better treatment for a number of reasons.

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10 ways to make Economy feel like First Class
  1. Start with the airline. ...
  2. Take a good travel pillow. ...
  3. Elevate your legs. ...
  4. Move seats. ...
  5. Go DIY gourmet with duty-free treats. ...
  6. Invest in good headphones or earplugs. ...
  7. Choose your seats wisely before you board. ...
  8. Bring a good sleeping mask.


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How to Survive A Long-Haul Flight
  1. Workout A Day Before. ...
  2. Charge Your Electronics. ...
  3. Pick Your Seat Strategically. ...
  4. Download an Audiobook or Podcast. ...
  5. Pack Noise Cancelling Headphones. ...
  6. Bring Snacks. ...
  7. Stay Hydrated. ...
  8. Comfortable Clothes.


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For all fare classes, except Basic Economy, you will be able to pick your seat or change your seat assignment. If you have a Basic Economy ticket, you're able to purchase a seat assignment during booking and up until check-in opens.

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