Paying extra fees for a particular plane seat may be the last thing you want to do when planning an already expensive trip.
Thankfully, Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert (MSE) experts highlight the lesser known way to secure a better place for free with EasyJet.
What sets EasyJet apart from many other airlines is its policy of allowing passengers to check in 30 days before the flight. When you do this, you and your travel companions will be assigned a specific seat on the plane, and the location will be determined by what is assigned to other passengers.
While this may seem simple, MSE experts emphasize that the earlier you check in, the more likely you will be assigned a “better seat” next to your family and friends. If you delay this, you may receive an unwanted spot instead.
“Unlike other airlines, EasyJet allows you to check in and assign a seat 30 days before you fly,” an expert at MSE explains online. “If you need a specific seat you will need to pay, but the earlier you check in, the more likely you will be assigned a better seat.”
In addition to this, the EasyJet website states: “If you do not select a seat at check-in, we will randomly assign the seats for free and do everything we can to ensure that everyone on the booking sits together. However, especially when you get closer to departure, the rate will vary depending on the route, flight and booking time you have chosen.”
If you want to avoid risk, EasyJet offers a variety of seating options on the website, starting at just 99p on shorter flights. You can also book extra legroom seats starting at £12.99, but other seats in front or above the wings cost over £7.99.
As part of its policy, EasyJet also aims to seat children under the age of 12 near adults, with infants able to sit on adult wraps for a fee of £25. It is essential to let EasyJet know if you are traveling with your kids by adding details during the booking process.
An advice from EasyJet reads: “If you are traveling with your kids, it is important to let them know when you book, simply add the number of children and infants and their ages during the booking process.
“If you haven't already purchased a seat for your family, the best way to ensure that everyone sits together is to check in as soon as possible. Check-in will open 30 days before departure.
“Our seating system always tries to keep families together, but seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
“If you leave it to the last minute, it's possible that there aren't enough seats left for the family to sit on each other. Make sure each child under the age of 12 is seated close to the adults at the time of booking.
“But we may only be able to arrange this at the airport or onboard. This could cause delays for you and other passengers, not everyone is sitting together.”
For more information, please visit the EasyJet website.
