Changing seats on planes is a hot topic – but what are the dos and don’ts? A travel expert clarified the unwritten rules

The etiquette of changing seats on airplanes has become one of the hottest topics on social media.

Passengers have posted stories of heartbreak and frustration after asking other pilots to change seats – and being turned down. And often they get little sympathy.

But what are the dos and don’ts when changing seats? Nicky Kelvin, head of UK travel website The Points Guy, offers advice in an Instagram video.

He says: “It’s fair to say that we’ve all been tempted to change our airplane seats for various reasons, whether it’s to sit next to loved ones or to sit by the window and enjoy the beautiful view.”

“However, there are some considerations to keep in mind.”

First, says Nicky, anyone requesting a seat swap should bear in mind that being assigned a seat can be expensive – or require elite status.

Second, make sure your offer is attractive.

Nicky says: “Only better or equal trades should be offered – you don’t want to end up with less than you had before.

“You might lose an aisle seat, but gain some legroom in a bulkhead seat.

“Or swap your window seat next to the toilet for a middle seat in the front of the cabin.”

He adds: “If you want to sit close to your partner or have a quick stopover, it’s fine to ask for a similar seat, but if the swap isn’t equal, it’s best to go it alone in special situations.” do i.e. care. for a companion or the reunion of a family with young children.

“But even then, it’s still a heated argument.”

He is not wrong.

Anyone requesting a seat change should be aware that seat assignment may be expensive – or require elite status

Comments poured in after a video on the subject was posted on Points Guy UK’s Instagram page.

One user, Aikezim, said: “I never agree. I always reserve my seats in advance, which usually cost extra. So if someone asks me to swap so they can sit together I say sorry no. If you don’t reserve your seat in advance, you risk where you end up.”

“Siobhan_obc” agreed, saying: “Everyone knows that if you want to sit together, you have to book the seats in advance. I never understand why families with young children don’t book seats together.’

However, Clarekingy pointed out that it’s not always that simple, writing: “Sometimes [seats together] is not available so book where you can and hope for kindness.’

‘Walker.mangum’ joined the debate by suggesting that ‘most of these people would be separated by a few hours’.

But what if a parent and young child are separated?

Points Guy UK supporter “gorgeousgregwise” recalled being separated from his four-year-old on a flight because he couldn’t afford the $60 seat check fee. He said: “I understand I didn’t have a seat choice, but she was identified as a child when I booked. I was upset. Anyway, someone was kind enough to switch us so we could sit together could sit … a little compassion goes a long way.”