I Prefer the Aisle Seat on Flights and I’m Happy to Pay More

As we approach milestone birthdays, our preferences and priorities tend to shift. This rings especially true for me as I find myself just a year away from turning 30. With a little more disposable income in my pocket, I’ve become more discerning about where I choose to sit when flying. While many assume that I would opt for the window seat for the scenic views, my preference these days is actually the aisle seat, particularly on long-haul journeys.

Earlier this year, I didn’t hesitate to shell out extra cash to secure aisle seats on Finnair flights between New York and Helsinki, Air India flights in January, and a forthcoming transatlantic flight on Norse Atlantic Airways in August. While there are instances where I won’t pay for a seat, such as short flights or when testing basic economy for work, I find that splurging on an aisle seat is well worth it for most cases.

The primary reason I’m willing to pay extra for an aisle seat is for the freedom it provides. I’m someone who values immediate access to things, and being confined to a window seat without the ability to move around as needed can be a source of stress for me. Additionally, after years of fearlessly embarking on adventures, I’ve developed a touch of claustrophobia when flying. The aisle seat allows me to stretch out when necessary, offering just enough space to alleviate any feelings of confinement.

Moreover, I’m a people pleaser at heart, and I would never want to inconvenience my seatmates by constantly needing to get up from a window seat. Opting for an aisle seat ensures that I can move about the cabin without disrupting others. While some may argue that aisle seats come with drawbacks like galley cart traffic or a lack of privacy, these factors don’t bother me personally. I can sleep soundly with a headrest and am unfazed by external noise or disturbances.

While there are moments when I wish I had a window seat for breathtaking views, like flying over the Himalayas on an Air India flight, I’ve found ways to make the most of my aisle seat experience. I’m always grateful when fellow travelers are willing to accommodate a quick photo opportunity or share the scenic sights with me.

When it comes to seat swaps, I typically only consider exchanging my aisle seat for another aisle seat or an exit row seat that allows for easy movement. While I firmly believe that individuals should plan ahead to sit together on flights, I’m willing to make exceptions for medical emergencies or children who are separated from their parents. In these cases, I’m more than happy to switch seats to ensure everyone’s comfort and well-being.

In conclusion, as I approach 30 with a newfound appreciation for comfort and convenience, the aisle seat has become my preferred choice for air travel. The added freedom and peace of mind it provides make it a worthwhile investment for me, even if it means occasionally forgoing the scenic window views. Ultimately, choosing the right seat can make all the difference in ensuring a pleasant and stress-free journey.