Should you pay for seat selection? A practical guide

What does seat selection actually cost?

Fees differ by airline, route and seat type. Some fares include seat choice at no extra cost, while others charge for any seat you pick in advance. The amount can also vary depending on where you sit, with extra-legroom or front-cabin seats often costing more.

Before you book, read the fare conditions carefully. The booking page should show whether seat selection is included or offered as an add-on. If you are unsure, check the airline's website or contact them directly.

FindMyFlight lists results by price, low to high, and never adds anything to a fare. You can compare options and then book directly with the airline or partner, so you see exactly what is included.

When is paying for seat selection worth it?

Families and groups often prefer to pay so they can sit together. If you are travelling with young children or someone who needs assistance, having assigned seats can reduce stress. Paying also makes sense if you want a specific spot, such as a window or aisle seat.

For solo travellers or short flights, paying may not be necessary. If you do not mind where you sit, you can skip the fee and let the airline assign a seat at check-in. Some people are happy to take any seat to save money.

Consider your priorities before you pay. If sitting next to your companion matters more than the fee, it is probably worth it. If you are flexible, you might save that money for something else.

Can you get a free seat without paying?

Online check-in may still offer free seats. Many airlines open check-in a day or so before departure, and at that point you can often choose from remaining seats at no cost. This works well if you check in as soon as it opens.

If you do not choose a seat, the airline assigns one at check-in. This could be any available seat, and your group may be split up. Airlines usually try to seat children with an adult, but this is not always the case.

Some fares include seat selection as a benefit. For example, higher fare classes or loyalty programme members may get free seat choice. Check your fare rules or frequent flyer status to see what applies.

How do seat fees vary by airline and route?

There is no single standard for seat selection fees. A low-cost carrier may charge for every seat, while a full-service airline might include standard seats in the fare. The route also matters, with longer flights sometimes having higher fees.

Seat type affects the price too. An ordinary seat near the back may cost less than one with extra legroom or near the front. Some airlines bundle seat selection with other perks like priority boarding or extra baggage.

Because rules differ, always check the airline's own information. The booking page should show the exact fee for each seat before you pay. If anything is unclear, contact the airline before completing your purchase.

What should you check before you pay?

First, look at your fare type. Does it include seat selection or not? Then check the airline's policy for your specific route and travel date. Rules can change, so do not rely on what you remember from a previous trip.

Next, think about your group. If you are travelling with others, decide whether sitting together is essential. For a short hop, you might accept separate seats. For a long-haul flight, paying could be more worthwhile.

Finally, compare the total cost. If seat selection adds a significant amount to a low fare, it may still be less than a higher fare that includes it. Use FindMyFlight to compare options and look before you book.

• Check if your fare includes free seat selection.
• See what seats are available and their fees.
• Decide if sitting together is a priority.
• Consider checking in online as soon as it opens for free options.

What happens if you do not pay?

If you skip seat selection, the airline assigns you a seat at check-in. This is usually free, but you have little control over where you sit. You might end up in a middle seat or separated from your travel companions.

Some airlines automatically seat children with an adult on the same booking, but this is not universal. Check the airline's policy if you are travelling with minors. If it is not stated, paying may be the safer choice.

At the airport, you can sometimes ask for a different seat, but availability is limited. By then, many desirable seats are taken. If a specific seat matters, sorting it out earlier is more reliable.

How can you save on seat selection?

One way to save is to wait for online check-in. If you are flexible, you can often pick a free seat then. This works well when you are travelling alone or do not mind where you sit.

Another option is to choose a fare that includes seat selection. Sometimes the price difference is small, and you get other benefits too. Compare the total cost of each fare type before deciding.

You can also set a price alert on FindMyFlight to watch fares. That way you can see when a fare with included seat selection becomes available. Remember, FindMyFlight never adds anything to the fare.

Questions and answers

Is seat selection always free?

No. Some fares include free seat choice, but many airlines charge extra for selecting a seat in advance. The fee depends on the airline, route and seat type. Check your booking page for details.

Can I choose a seat for free at online check-in?

Often yes. Many airlines open online check-in a day or so before departure, and you can pick from remaining seats at no cost. Check in early for the widest free options.

Will my family be seated together if I do not pay?

Not always. Airlines may try to seat children with an adult, but this is not always the case. If sitting together is important, paying for seat selection is a reliable way to secure it.

Do seat selection fees vary by route?

Yes. Fees can differ by airline, route and seat type. For example, extra-legroom seats usually cost more than standard seats. Always check the specific flight before booking.

Can I change my seat after paying?

It depends on the airline. Some allow changes for free, others charge a fee. Check the airline's seat selection policy or contact them directly before making changes.