I asked travel experts the worst area to sit on a plane — they all said to avoid 1 spot
I asked travel experts the worst area to sit on a plane — they all said to avoid 1 spot
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I asked travel experts the worst area to sit on a plane — they all said to avoid 1 spot

Nicola Roy 🕒︎ 2025-11-04

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I asked travel experts the worst area to sit on a plane — they all said to avoid 1 spot

Jetting off on holiday is always exciting, especially during the chillier months when the idea of swapping the UK for somewhere warm and sunny is enough to lift anyone's spirits. However, even if you're simply heading to a European destination, the journey there isn't always plain sailing. We've all endured the horror of a dreadful flight before . Whether it's down to discomfort, fellow passengers' antics, or something else entirely, it can cast a shadow over your holiday before it's even started. So, to help travellers kick off their trips on the right foot, I decided to consult some experts about the worst spot on the aircraft to reserve your seat - and they all had very similar answers. Nearly all of the specialists I spoke to agreed that the very last row of the aircraft might not be your best bet if you're after a peaceful journey, reports the Express . Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook , warned that anyone who struggles with turbulence will want to 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 emphasised the importance of being organised when reserving aircraft seats. This often comes at an extra charge, but if you're anxious about securing a decent seat, then there's a good chance it'll be money well spent. 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, a travel expert 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 smoothest experience. 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 less ideal when it comes to storage space, particularly if you're late boarding. Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO and Co-Founder of luggage storage firm Stasher said: "Avoid sitting near galleys and toilets, where staff members often store their things in overhead bins, leaving less space for passenger baggage. "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 passengers to avoid the back row when flying, 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 traveling in a group." However, for those seeking maximum legroom, there are two areas offering the most space. Andrea said: "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." And for travellers prone to airsickness during turbulence, one specific location is recommended. The expert added: "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."

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