Why I Always Pay to Choose my Seat

As airlines cut prices on tickets, they’re making up profits in other ways. Paying for luggage (both carry-on and checked luggage), seat selection, even some food and drinks on more budget airlines.

Window seats tend to be the hot seats, with middle seats being dreaded. If you don’t care where you sit, especially for a short flight, I wouldn’t worry about paying for your seat.

However, there are times and instances that you need a specific seat. I have bad kidneys and have to get up often, so I prefer the aisle seat if possible. This means I usually pay for my seat.

Prices to choose your seat can vary anywhere from $9-115 depending on your flight, the ticket class, and if it’s long- or short-haul.

Is paying to choose your seat worth it? In most cases, I think so - and here’s why.

Seat selection often includes checked baggage and more.

Most often, if you buy a basic economy ticket, you cannot pick your seat at the time of purchasing. However, they will let you pay to pick your seat later on. Sometimes paying for your seat on certain legs of your trip includes more perks. I usually pay to pick my seat during the longest portion of the trip.

You can still save money

If you pay for a basic economy ticket, it is usually significantly cheaper than even an economy ticket. If you pay for a basic economy ticket, you can still pay for seats after purchasing your ticket and still potentially save money!

Great if you’re traveling with others

I love to sit next to my travel-mate when traveling. I don’t mind sitting apart during short flights, but on long-haul flights, I want my buddy nearby :) Paying to sit next to each other can ensure you are close!