In the frequent traveler community, where tips and tricks are shared like precious gems, there is a prevailing notion that each traveler possesses a unique “booking trick” that they swear by. Among these strategies, a couple of standout tactics have gained popularity and garnered attention.
A Clever Booking Strategy
In the frequent traveler community, where tips and tricks are shared like precious gems, there is a prevailing notion that each traveler possesses a unique “booking trick” that they swear by. Among these strategies, a couple of standout tactics have gained popularity and garnered attention.
One such method, often referred to as the “middle seat trick,” involves two travelers intentionally reserving the aisle and window seats, leaving the middle seat unclaimed. The hope is that by doing so, the odds of someone occupying that dreaded middle seat will diminish, resulting in a more spacious and enjoyable journey.
This simple yet clever maneuver has been embraced by many savvy travelers.
It Has Gained Traction Online
Amidst this realm of booking hacks and tricks, a fascinating “booking hack” has gained traction online, thanks to British travel influencer Kirsty Leanne.
In a TikTok video shared on her popular page @KirstyLeanneTravels, Kirsty documents her experience of discreetly approaching a flight attendant after boarding the plane. In the video, she is seen inquiring, “Are there any seats where there’s two seats next to each other free?”
As the video progresses, it reveals Kirsty seated onboard with an empty seat in front of her, a testament to her resourcefulness.
Empowering Plus-Sizers
Kirsty shares that many travelers either overlook or hesitate to make such requests, while most flight attendants are more than willing to assist after the flight has commenced. It serves as a reminder that advocating for one’s own comfort is not only acceptable but also essential.
Kirsty’s content resonates with a wide audience, as she describes herself as a blogger who empowers “plus size babes” to travel the world with confidence, addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals of all body types.
Push for Policy
This intriguing discourse on travel strategies coincides with a time when the topic of plus-size travel has been thrust into the spotlight. In early June, plus-size travel influencer Jae’Lynn Chaney initiated a petition urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to enforce “clear and inclusive guidelines on accommodating customers of size.”
The petition also advocates for offering a second seat free of charge to those who cannot comfortably fit into a standard seat.
Currently, airline policies on this matter vary significantly, with Southwest (LUV) – Get Free Report leading the way by consistently refunding a second seat to customers who require additional space. However, most airlines either consider providing an extra seat only when the flight is not fully booked or do not have a consistent policy in place.
Substantial Controversy
Unsurprisingly, the discussion surrounding Chaney’s petition has sparked substantial controversy, with differing opinions emerging regarding the fairness of receiving a second seat for reasons that could be considered preventable.
With over 30% of Americans classified as overweight or obese, and projections indicating that over half of the global population will fall into this category by 2035, it becomes increasingly apparent that the issue of making travel more comfortable for plus-size customers is one that airlines must address to remain competitive and inclusive.
Changing Size and Landscape
Furthermore, Kirsty advises travelers not to approach the first flight attendant they encounter but rather to wait until reaching their specific section on the plane. This strategic approach allows for a more targeted inquiry, increasing the chances of finding an accommodating flight attendant who can assist in securing a more comfortable travel arrangement.
As the travel landscape continues to evolve, with increasing awareness of diverse traveler needs and preferences, it becomes imperative for airlines to address the concerns of plus-size customers and offer inclusive solutions.
By establishing clear guidelines and implementing policies that prioritize comfort and accessibility for all passengers, airlines can foster an environment that welcomes and accommodates travelers of every body type.
The post Plus-Size Traveler Uses Clever ‘Middle-Seat Trick’ to Get TWO Plane Seats When Flying first appeared on Wealthy Living.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / ViDI Studio. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
Source: TikTok