‘Dead simple’ flight booking trick to get ‘perfect plane seats’ for the whole family, expert says

Family holidays offer rare quality time and precious memories for everyone from little tots to their grandparents. But it can also be the most stressful experience for the family members organising the trip. Travel expert Dawn Morwood shared her “dead simple zoning method” that ensures each family member is in the ideal seats that suit their needs.

Most importantly, the budget-friendly tip might even save you a few quid. Front zone Aisle seats near the front are ideal for older family members as it makes boarding and getting off the plane far easier and quicker for them. They’ll also have easy access to the bathrooms and the front of the plane usually avoids the worst of the turbulence and disruptive passengers.



Middle zone This section of the plane is near the wings and gets the least turbulence, ideal for parents with young children who may be nervous fliers. The Cheap Deals Away co-director recommended: “Choose window seats for the kids - it keeps them entertained with the view and means they won't be disturbed by other passengers needing to get past.” Breathing zone Trying to force your solo family members into the convention that "we have to sit together because family holiday time starts now" often leaves teens and your more independent relatives frustrated before they even get to the airport.

Instead, the travel expert recommended letting them sit slightly away from everyone else. This could be in the rows around you or in aisle or window seats in your line of sight. You’ll be able to keep an eye on them for that family feel while also giving them their independence and much-needed breathing room.

Plus, these odd single seats are sometimes a bargain deal. Dawn added: “I've seen so many families struggle with seating arrangements when a simple bit of planning could have made their journey so much smoother. Even if you can't get your exact preferred seats, understanding these zones helps you make the best choices from what's available.

Remember, a comfortable journey sets the tone for your whole holiday, so it's worth taking the time to get it right.” She also recommended using sites like SeatGuru, which check the best seats on the specific type of plane you’ll be flying on. And while most airlines charge for seat selection, booking early can offer better prices or downloading your airline’s app can sometimes hold free seat selection and let you know if better seats become available.

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