Choosing the right seat while flying can make your travel experience more comfortable. Whether you want more legroom, a window view, or a seat closer to the front, seat selection plays an important role. This BooksMyFlight Seat Selection Guide will help travelers in the United States understand how airline seating works, how to choose the best seat, when to pay extra, and how to avoid common mistakes.
📷 Image Credit: Sriggle Tech
1. What Is Seat Selection?
Seat selection means choosing your seat during or after booking a flight instead of allowing the airline system to assign one automatically. Most U.S. travelers select seats because it helps them travel comfortably, sit with family, and avoid middle seats.
While some airlines allow free seat selection, others charge extra based on seat type, location, and demand.
2. Why Seat Selection Matters for Travelers
Seat selection is not just about comfort — it affects your entire flying experience. Many travelers choose seats based on:
- Extra legroom
- Window or aisle preference
- Sitting with family
- Avoiding turbulence zones
- Faster exit after landing
A good seat can make long flights feel shorter, especially for older travelers, children, or long-haul international flights.
3. Types of Seats Available for Seat Selection
Airlines in the U.S. offer multiple seating options. Understanding these helps you make a better choice:
✔ Standard Seats and Basic Seat Selection
Basic seats with regular legroom. These are usually the cheapest option for seat selection.
✔ Extra Legroom Seat Selection Options
These seats offer more space and are ideal for tall travelers or long flights.
✔ Exit Row Seats
Extra space, but only available for passengers who meet safety rules and can assist during emergencies.
✔ Window vs Aisle Seats — How to Choose
Many travelers prefer window seats for views or aisle seats for easy movement.
✔ Front Row and Bulkhead Seats
Located near boarding doors, these seats allow faster exit and more legroom but may have limited under-seat storage.
4. How to Choose Seats Using BooksMyFlight
With BooksMyFlight tools, travelers in the U.S. can easily compare seat types, fees, and comfort.
Step 1: Search Your Flight
When booking through BooksMyFlight, look for the seat selection map during checkout.
Step 2: Choose Seat Type
Compare options such as Standard, Exit Row, Extra Legroom, or Premium seats.
Step 3: Confirm Seat Selection and Pay if Needed
Some seats are free, while others require payment depending on the airline.
Step 4: Save or Download Boarding Pass
Your boarding pass will show your selected seat.
5. When Seat Selection Is Free and When You Pay
Most airlines allow free seat selection under specific conditions:
✔ After check-in (usually 24 hours before departure)
✔ If traveler holds elite status
✔ If the booking includes premium or business class
Paid seat selection is common when:
- You want extra legroom
- You want guaranteed window or aisle seats
- You want to sit together with family
Prices vary by airline but generally range between $10–$150 depending on distance and location.
6. Best Seat Selection for Different Travelers
Picking the best seat depends on personal needs. Here are quick recommendations:
| Traveler Type | Best Seat Choice |
|---|---|
| Families | Middle rows together |
| Couples | Window + aisle pair or two-seat row |
| Tall passengers | Economy Plus or Exit Row |
| Travelers with motion sickness | Seats near the wings |
| Fast exit needed | Front rows |
7. Tips to Save Money on Seat Selection
Here are ways to avoid or reduce seat selection fees:
- Book early — more free seats available
- Use airline loyalty programs
- Check again 2–3 days before departure
- Select seats during online check-in
- Travel during off-peak days
Many times, good seats appear later when airlines release unsold premium seating.
8. Can Airlines Change Your Selected Seat?
Yes — airlines can change your seat in rare situations such as:
- Aircraft type change
- Safety requirements
- Overbooking
- Disabled passenger priority seating
If this happens, travelers can usually request a similar or upgraded seat.
9. Final Summary — Smart Seat Selection with BooksMyFlight
Seat selection is an important part of planning your flight experience. With the BooksMyFlight Seat Selection Guide, U.S. travelers can confidently choose the best seats, avoid unnecessary fees, enjoy comfort, and make informed decisions. Whether you’re flying short distances or long international routes, choosing the right seat can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
How to Book a Flight Click here