If you’ve got a winter break coming up, you’re probably getting very excited – especially if you are heading off somewhere warm and sunny. However, even if you’re not heading too far afield, the journey to get there isn’t always smooth sailing.
Most travellers have endured the horror of an uncomfortable flight at some point. Whether it’s due to cramped conditions, other passengers causing a ruckus, or anything in between, it’s a quick way to ruin your holiday before it’s even properly begun. So to help holidaymakers ensure their trips begin on a positive note, I consulted several industry experts about the worst seat location on aircraft – and their verdict was unanimous.
Nearly every expert I spoke to agreed wholeheartedly that the back row of the aircraft might not be ideal if you’re keen for a peaceful journey.
Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, cautioned that passengers sensitive to turbulence should steer clear of this section.
He explained: “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 hailed the importance of advance planning when reserving aircraft seats. Whilst this frequently comes at a cost, nervous flyers concerned about securing a decent seat will likely find the expense worthwhile.
The expert continued: “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, agreed, 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.”
Unsurprisingly, the front of the aircraft proved to be the best location for the most comfortable journey.
Izzy 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.”
The rear section of the aircraft isn’t just problematic for comfort – it’s also more of a problem regarding storage space, especially if you end up boarding late.
Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO and Co-Founder of luggage storage company Stasher, said: “Avoid sitting near galleys and toilets, where staff members often store their things in overhead bins, leaving less space for passenger baggage.
He continued: “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, for those looking for the most legroom, Andrea pointed out two specific areas: “Exit-row and bulkhead seats offer more space, but they come with trade-offs: fixed armrests, limited recline, or restrictions for passengers traveling with children.”
For passengers prone to airsickness during turbulence, she recommended a specific location on the plane: “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.”
