In this economy, everyone’s looking for a bargain, and that includes air travel. SeatGuru founder Matt Daimler recently told us how to find a first class seat in coach. Now, he’s taking it one step further and sharing a few more of his own personal tricks for getting the most out of your economy ticket.
Skip the Middle Seat
Daimler says when he’s traveling with another person, he normally tries to book the aisle and window seat in a row, leaving the middle seat empty in the hopes that no one will sit there. “Over the last 8 or 10 months, airlines haven’t been selling as many seats, and we’ve been seeing good success with this,” Daimler says. “It’s worked out for us on 8 out of 10 flights.”
If you don’t want to risk having a stranger sit between you, travel partners can book two aisle seats across from each other. “They’re close enough that you can still talk, and you both get an aisle seat, which a lot of people like,” Daimler says.
Bring the Right Electronics
Daimler also travels with noise canceling headphones and a personal video device so he can zone-out in flight and watch whatever movie or TV show strikes his fancy. You can purchase an Archos 5, the very same personal media player United Airlines provides their business class passengers on coast-to-coast flights, for about $400. It can store more than 300 movies and play 7 hours of video without needing to be recharged.
As for the headphones, the SeatGuru team recently took some of the top brands for a test run. Some of the favorites include the Bose Quiet Comfort 3, which cost around $350, and the Plane Quiet Platinum, available for about $100.
Go Premium
Last but not least, Daimler says to always check the fare on premium coach seats. If the price is right, this section can be a great alternative to regular coach, offering extra width or legroom and extra amenities.
“If the price of a premium coach seat is too high at the time you’re booking your ticket, always remember to keep your eyes open at the airport,” Daimler says. “Sometimes, upgrades are available on the day of the flight for much less than it would’ve cost to book originally. Always remember to check at the gate before you board. If you get on the plane, it’s too late to switch.”
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