Expert Advice

Booking your holiday on a specific day could actually make your trip cheaper when compared to the rest of the week – and it’s good news for those who want short breaks

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to booking a holiday. Once you’ve chosen where you’d like to go, you have to consider what time of year you’d like to travel, how long you want to go for, and whether you want an all-inclusive resort holiday or want to get out and experience a new culture.

But what you might not have considered before is the exact day of the week you want to fly out. Most people will either pick the start of the week if they’ve taken time off from work, or will opt to travel on the weekend in order to squeeze a couple of extra days out of their trip.

According to one travel expert, however, travelling on specific days of the week could actually make your holiday cheaper or more expensive – and it’s not always a good idea to avoid the weekends.

A holiday expert named Rob, who is an insider for On The Beach, shared a TikTok video in which he looked through the On The Beach data for 2026 holidays and found that some days of the week are cheaper to travel on.

He stipulated that the data he looked at was specifically for couples’ holidays in 2026, but said that “it goes to show that picking the right date can save you a lot of money”.

Rob ran through the days of the week, starting with the most expensive day to travel – Wednesday.

Explaining why this is, he said: “It’s probably because midweek flights are packed with business travellers, so that pushes the price up, especially on short-haul flights. So that’s your baseline, and one to avoid if you can.”

Next, saving just 1% in comparison to Wednesday, is Tuesday, and the third most expensive day to travel is Saturday. Sunday is marginally cheaper as the middle day on the list, coming in at the fourth cheapest and fourth most expensive.

Speaking about Sunday, Rob said: “Sunday gives you about a 5% saving versus Wednesday. Not to be sniffed at, 5% can be a big difference. Hotels love a Sunday check-in, [as there are] quieter lobbies and fewer crowds, and often, because of this, [there are] lower rates. Plus, you skip the weekend airport chaos.”

The third cheapest day to travel is actually a Monday, as Rob said people “tend to hate the idea” of travelling on a Monday on a psychological level, as it reminds people of going to work.

Second place went to Thursday, as you miss out on the weekend rush, but coming in first place, and saving a whopping 13% compared to those travelling on Wednesday, is actually Friday.

While travelling on a Friday might seem like it would be expensive because it’s so popular, Rob said that’s actually why it’s cheap – as there are more flights and more package deals available.

He said: “There are more flights. Airlines put on more leisure routes because there’s more demand, which means prices get driven down. It’s also the day most hotels want you to check in, meaning more package deals, more discounts, and overall better value.”

Rob ended his video by stating that his data is “foolproof” and booking a holiday on a Friday won’t always work out cheaper, but it’s certainly worth a look if you’re planning a holiday for 2026.

A travel expert has shared four of her top picks for those looking to book a winter getaway in search of some sun and escaping the cold – with ‘dazzling hidden gems’ around the world

After such a long hot summer, some people may not be able to wave goodbye to the warm weather yet – and may already be seeking a winter getaway for some more sun.

Reports show that searches for ‘winter breaks in the sun’ have increased by +5000% in the past 30 days, with travellers on the hunt for last-minute winter breaks and Heather Green, Head of Product at Sovereign Luxury Travel, shares four of the best luxury winter sun destinations to book ahead of winter 2025.

It’s no surprised Brits struggling with the bitter winter cold are dreaming of golden beaches, balmy temperatures and tropical landscapes, so the travel expert has shared her top picks.

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“Winter sun destinations provide a contrast to the grey UK winter, with their tropical warmth, golden beaches, and sense of escape that feels like a welcome break from the everyday.”

Firstly, she recommends Tenerife, Spain and said: “The Canary Islands have long been a favourite for UK holidaymakers thanks to their year-round sunshine, but visiting in winter gives you the chance to enjoy them at a gentler pace, without the crowds.”

It’s the largest island in the Canary Island and offers everything from azure seas and sandy beaches to charming towns, with winter temperatures that hover around a pleasant 20–25 degrees.

Next, the expert suggested Anse Le Raie, Mauritius. Calling it one of the most “dazzling hidden gems”. “If a chic Indian Ocean escape is what you’re after, Mauritius is an inspired choice, and Anse La Raie on the island’s northern coast is one of its most dazzling hidden gems.

“Even in winter, temperatures remain warm and inviting at around 26–27 degrees, making it ideal for sun-drenched days on white-sand beaches and windsurfing across calm turquoise waters,” Heather explained.

Another top destination hailed by Heather is the Maldives. It remains as one of the world’s most sought-after winter sun spots, and with temperatures averaging 27 to 30 degrees, Heather said “days are best spent snorkelling among technicolour coral reefs, sailing out on sunset cruises to watch dolphins, or unwinding with overwater spa treatments.”

Finally, the expert also suggested Riviera Maya, Mexico, calling it a “rewarding choice”. She noted: “Along the Riviera Maya, winter temperatures stay between 24 and 28 degrees, perfect for long days on 30 kilometres of white sand and swimming in the calm Caribbean waters.

“Just offshore lies the world’s second-largest coral reef, where snorkelling and diving reveal an underwater world of vivid marine life.”

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Thailand is a popular travel destination for Brits seeking some winter sun – but new travel restrictions came into place earlier this year that people should be aware of before arriving

As the colder weather approaches, some of us may not be ready to say goodbye to summer, and looking for some winter sun.

While there are many destinations offering balmy weather for freezing cold Brits, Thailand is a popular spot for many people over the winter months. Data from Thailand Travel Specialists at Travelbag found that during peak travel seasons (November to February), departures to Thailand increase by more than 158 per cent.

More than 35 million visitors flock to Thailand annually, with more than 700,000 travelling from the UK alone. With this demand, the experts urge all travellers to be aware of the new entry requirement that took effect in May of this year to avoid any stress or delays when entering the country.

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According to Helen Wheat, asia destination manager at Travelbag said: “As of May, all foreign nationals travelling to Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online. While there is no strict minimum time, it is recommended to submit the TDAC at least 72 hours before arrival to avoid any delays in processing.”

She said this digital form has replaced the traditional paper TM6 card to “streamline immigration procedures” and does not require any fee or payment.

Wheat further noted: “If the TDAC isn’t completed in advance, travellers may experience delays at immigration and be required to fill it out at a self-service kiosk on arrival, which can take much longer.”

The expert also recommended screenshotting or emailing the confirmation to your phone as you may be asked to show it, and said to make sure you have your passport, flight details and accommodation information ready when completing the form.

“At Travelbag, we advise all customers to complete the TDAC ahead of time to avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a hassle-free start to their trip,” Wheat added.

For those who don’t want to travel as far as Thailand, there’s a European secret that delivers a comparable adventure much nearer to home. The Shala River has earned the title “Thailand of Europe,” offering a taste of paradise without the lengthy journey or cost of a holiday in Southeast Asia. It features stunning turquoise waters and dense, rainforest-like landscapes, creating an exotic adventure in Europe’s heartland.

Ideal for an autumn getaway, Albania enjoys delightfully mild temperatures of approximately 25C in October, with plenty of sunshine making it perfect for late-season sun-seekers.

For those drawn to Thailand’s 1,500 miles of shoreline and more than 1,400 islands scattered with limestone formations, colourful coral reefs, and magnificent beaches, Albania’s Shala River offers an extraordinary substitute.

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As airlines are getting stricter with their baggage restrictions, travellers are coming up with inventive ways to pack more while paying less – but there’s one trick experts are urging people not to risk doing

There are so many different travel ‘hacks’ circulating on social media – but experts urge travellers not to follow the viral pillowcase luggage trick as it’s not worth the risk.

Many of us are guilty of overpacking when going away, so it’s no wonder we’re always looking at ways to pack more and keep within the allowed size and weight limit for our luggage without paying more.

However the viral pillowcase hack, that sees travellers stuffing an empty pillowcase with extra clothes rather than bags when boarding a plane could come at a risk that experts advise people not to follow.

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As airlines become stricter on their hang luggage rules, Amanda Parker from Netflights has shared her thoughts. She said: “Passengers are cunningly avoiding these strict hand luggage limits and avoiding paying up to £150 in extra fees by taking advantage of an empty pillowcase.

“Travellers are using a standard pillowcase, removing the pillow inside, and instead using it as a secret storage compartment for extra clothes. Travellers rely on airlines not counting a pillow as an additional item when boarding, so by stuffing a standard pillowcase with soft clothing items like T-shirts and jumpers, they’re essentially creating a travel ‘pillow’ that they hope to sneak through.”

However the expert said “airlines are cracking down on sneaky flight hacks” and said you might want to think twice about testing this hack on your next flight.

“An overly stuffed pillowcase bursting with clothes can raise suspicion, and if you’re already boarding the plane with maximum baggage, then your pillow can be flagged as extra.” Amanda said what works for one airline may not for another as different airlines cabin baggage rules vary.

She added: “By risking the pillowcase hack, you could risk holding up the boarding process or being denied boarding entirely if you can’t pay the fee. Some low-cost airlines state that any item used to carry belongings, even if disguised, must be treated as luggage,” and advised before jetting off to always check the baggage allowance rules with the correct bags.

The expert said airlines issue fines for overweight baggage due to the fact that the heavier a plane is, the more fuel it burns. “So every kilogram of baggage increases the plane’s weight, which directly impacts fuel consumption.

“Since fuel is one of the biggest costs for airlines, they want to limit unnecessary weight, and charging for excess baggage is one way to do it.”

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A medical expert has revealed there’s one thing you should never consume before boarding a plane. Pharmacist Seema Khatri explained holidaymakers can risk consequences by doing so

When it comes to travelling abroad, people have all sorts of different rituals; however, experts say there are some things you shouldn’t consume when on a plane. According to an expert, there are “hidden dangers” associated with one common practice, as it could lead to serious health concerns.

If you ever think of taking a sleeping pill before a flight, you may want to think again, as pharmacists are warning travellers that it could be one of the worst things you can do at 35,000 feet. Anyone planning to travel soon has been urged against it, as it poses various threats you may be unaware of.

There are various ways you can try and fall asleep on a plane, but avoiding pills to aid the process is always best. Instead, you may want to try this simple hack that claims to help people fall asleep within minutes.

“People imagine that taking a sleeping pill means they’ll wake up refreshed at their destination,” says pharmacist Seema Khatri at Roseway Labs, which has hundreds of followers on Instagram. “But drug-induced sleep is not the same as natural, restorative sleep, and on a plane it can actually leave you groggier and more jet-lagged.”

One of the biggest risks is circulation, as the expert explained: “When you’re sedated you move far less, and that immobility can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Cabins are already dehydrating environments, and sedatives can thicken the blood further, so the two combined aren’t a good mix.”

Cabin pressure also amplifies the effects of sleeping tablets. At altitude, oxygen levels are lower. Sedatives can intensify drowsiness, confusion or even breathing problems because of that, according to Seema.

“So what might feel like a mild dose on the ground can hit much harder once you’re in the air,” she added. While many passengers reach for sleeping pills to try and “beat jet lag”, the opposite is often true.

Seema explained: “If you take at the wrong time, your body clock becomes even more confused. Instead of easing into the new time zone, you land disoriented and wired.

“Older travellers, people with breathing conditions like asthma or sleep apnoea, and anyone with circulation problems should steer well clear of sedatives on planes. Even a small dose can hit them harder at altitude and, in some cases, it can become dangerous rather than just uncomfortable.”

How can I rest when flying?

Instead of pharmaceuticals, supplements that aid sleep may be a better alternative for travellers. There are all sorts of methods that can be sampled after seeking medical guidance.

“We also recommend magnesium glycinate to calm the nervous system, or herbal teas such as chamomile or lemon balm if you just want to relax,” noted Seema. “It’s also important to stay well hydrated, as dehydration can make it harder to rest and can worsen jet lag.”

Simple travel hacks – like wearing an eye mask, noise-cancelling headphones and cutting out caffeine before departure – can also make a big difference. “These options won’t put you into an unnatural sleep cycle, so you arrive fresher and safer,” she added.

Sleeping pills might seem like an easy fix for long-haul travel, but experts stress they could leave you groggy, dehydrated and at higher health risk. Seema explained: “A sleeping pill before take-off may knock you out, but it won’t give your body the restorative rest it really needs.”

There’s no need to struggle with sleep but, if you do, ensure you contact a medical professional for help. Your GP will be able to assist with any sleep concerns you may have.

A flight attendant has shared the eight items she believes are essential to bring on a plane, especially if it’s a long-haul flight, as it will make your experience more relaxing an enjoyable

Flying off somewhere, whether it’s for a holiday or for something else, can be nerve-wracking, particularly when you’re facing a lengthy flight or you’re not an experienced traveller. One of the most crucial tasks before heading to the airport is ensuring you’ve packed all your must-have items.

Holiday packing can feel daunting, as it’s a mix of trying to squeeze everything in whilst avoiding creases, worrying about taking too much, or panicking you haven’t brought enough with you. Whilst many travellers choose to check their luggage, you’ll still be permitted to bring a small bag into the cabin as hand luggage.

Taking to social media, cabin crew member Chloe has revealed eight items she considers absolutely vital to take aboard an plane in your hand luggage, especially for long-distance journeys, as they’ll make your trip more pleasant and comfortable.

“Must haves on planes, from a flight attendant,” she posted on the opening slide of her TikTok post.

She then went on to dive into her recommendations of things that she things are essential to pack for a plane.

1. ‘Poo’ spray

Using the loo on an aircraft can be an uncomfortable situation for some passengers, particularly when nature calls for number twos. To make the ordeal more bearable for yourself and fellow travellers, Chloe suggested packing a ‘poo spray’.

Whilst it might sound peculiar, the spray is applied either around the lavatory or straight into the toilet bowl and will consequently mask unpleasant bathroom odours.

“It’s called Poopurri and yes it works. Be a good human and spray before you walk away,” Chloe posted.

2. Snacks & drinks

Next, she suggested bringing your own food and beverages aboard the aircraft. Her primary reasoning for this centres on how unforeseen turbulence or conditions might postpone the scheduled meal service.

“If turbulence hits, you might not get served for hours,” she explained. “Bring your own snacks and drinks, plane food is mid anyway.”

3. Disposable toothbrush

“Nothing hits like brushing your teeth after a long flight nap,” she said. “These little guys are pre-pasted! No sink, no mess, just fresh.”

The item she endorsed was a multipack of throwaway mini toothbrushes that already contain toothpaste, eliminating one additional product from your packing list.

Should you prefer not to purchase another single-use item, an excellent alternative would be simply packing your own toothbrush and toothpaste in your hand luggage for freshening up before touchdown.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones

Aircraft can be loud, which can make the journey feel considerably longer than it actually is. To combat this, Chloe suggests packing some noise-cancelling headphones for use during the flight.

“Trust me – they’re a lifesaver, she said. “Block out crying babies, engine noise, and snoring seatmates. “”.

“Just make sure they come with a wire for in-flight screens,” she added.

5. Steam eye mask

“Best travel hack I’ve found,” she said about her fifth tip, which was steam eye masks. These masks help to boost blood flow around your peepers.

The warmth can also help you unwind and drift off more easily.

“The heat soothes my dry, tired eyes and eases the pressure. It’s the only reason I can sleep on flights now,” Chloe said.

6. AirFly

If you’ve got headphones or earbuds that need Bluetooth to function, having a Bluetooth transmitter, such as an AirFly, will let you use your own headphones for the in-flight entertainment.

“A game changer for anyone who flies and wants to use their own wireless earbuds instead of those uncomfortable airline headphones,” Chloe said.

7. Good neck pillow

If you know you’ll want to kip or chill out during your flight, investing in a neck pillow can be brilliant for preventing a stiff or sore neck.

However, Chloe warned her viewers to ensure they purchase a decent quality one.

She said: “Not all neck pillows are created equal. Find one that actually supports your head or risk waking up with neck pain and regret.”

8. Passport and pen

Finally, as most travellers will already know, the most crucial item you need to take on your flight is your valid passport.

But Chloe also made sure to mention that you should pack your own biro.

“Double-check that your passport isn’t expired. And bring your own pen!” she said. “You’ll need it for customs forms, and flight attendants never seem to have extras.”

Chloe then shared a few more tips to make your flight more comfortable, including wearing compression socks, carrying gum or mints, a pill case with medications, sanitising wipes, hand sanitiser, a reusable water bottle, and face masks.

Finding savvy travel hacks online can make your holiday planning seamless and stressfree – but there is one hack experts urge people never to follow as it could spoil your trip

Social media is full of quirky travel hacks – but there is one trend experts are urging people not to follow.

The ‘last to board’ hack comes with the logic that by hanging back means you will be able to spot the free seats and hopefully bag some extra leg room. It also claims you can avoid the hassle of standing in the aisle while everyone else finds their place.

The internet is full of clever hacks that can make your holiday preparations a breeze such as packing tricks and how to skip long airport queues, and while the last to board trend may seem tempting, it could backfire in ways that may ruin your trip according to an expert.

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Travel expert Silvena Nonev from Scandinavia Private Tours said a lot of people think waiting until the end is a “clever move” but it’s actually a “far less glamorous” reality. “One of the biggest issues is luggage space. By the time you get on board, most passengers will have already filled the overhead bins.

“That leaves latecomers scrambling to find room wherever they can, which often means their bag ends up several rows away from them,” she said.

But it doesn’t stop there, as if there is no space left at all, passengers risk being told to check in their cabin bag at the gate. “That’s when things really become inconvenient,” she continued. “You lose access to your essentials during the flight and you’ll have to wait at baggage claim once you land. It’s hardly the relaxing start people have in mind when they’re heading off on holiday.”

She also said many travellers don’t consider until it’s too late. Airlines have the right to reassign seats if needed, and boarding late makes you a prime candidate for being moved around.

Silvena warned: “You might find yourself asked to swap so families can sit together or so that airline staff can balance the cabin. If you’ve paid extra for a particular seat, or you were hoping for peace and quiet, losing it can be very frustrating.”

Instead, Silvena said preparation is key. “Many airlines offer priority boarding for free if you’re a member of their loyalty programme, and even some credit card companies provide perks like early boarding. Making use of these options gives you the advantage without the chaos of last-minute boarding.”

She also recommends using booking tools wisely. “You can often select your preferred seat in advance, whether that’s extra legroom in the exit row or a quiet spot at the front. There are even websites that review seat layouts for different aircraft, so you can make the best choice depending on your flight length.”

And for those worried about overhead luggage space, she has a simple solution. “If you pack a smaller bag that can slide under the seat in front, you’ll never be forced to check it in. It’s worth thinking carefully about what you really need for the flight.”

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A pest expert issued an urgent warning for people travelling home from their summer holidays

With the end of the summer holidays in sight, many holidaymakers will be packing up their bags and preparing to head home. While people might put lots of care into their packing, it’s common to spend less time unpacking – and simply dump the contents of your suitcase straight in the wash.

It’s always a good idea to chuck your clothes in the wash as soon as you get home. However, there is another important step everyone’s being advised to complete when they unpack their luggage.

A pest specialist is urging holidaymakers to check their suitcases carefully in case of any unwanted guests. James Rhoades, who owns ThermoPest, has warned that bed bugs flourish in warm, humid conditions and that summer travellers could unknowingly introduce the pests into their home when returning from a trip.

Explaining why summer is associated with a heightened risk, James said: “During hot weather, bed bugs become more active and need to feed more frequently. They get all their hydration from blood, so a warm, humid summer gives them the perfect opportunity to bite. With people wearing lighter sleepwear or using thinner sheets, there’s less of a barrier between the bugs and their food source – us.

“There’s also typically a rise in cases after holiday periods, as bed bugs can easily be brought back hidden in suitcases or laundry. Once inside, they spread quickly, so early detection and prevention are key.”

Thankfully, there are steps people can take to minimise the risk when they arrive at their holiday and when they return home. James says people should ‘be vigilant’ when travelling.

He explains: “Hotels, guest houses, and short-term rentals can become hotspots for bed bugs during peak travel periods. Before unpacking, check the seams of the mattress, headboard, and upholstered furniture for telltale signs such as tiny rust-coloured spots or shed skins.

“Keep luggage elevated on racks rather than placing it directly on the floor to reduce the chance of bed bugs crawling into your belongings. You could also store clothes in sealed bags inside your suitcase for added protection and to make it harder for bugs to hitch a ride home.”

When it is time to return home, it’s recommended that you unpack your clothes straight into the machine and carefully inspect your suitcase. James explains: “Returning home is one of the most common times for bed bugs to be introduced into your living space. As soon as you arrive back, unpack directly into the washing machine and wash everything on a hot cycle.

“Visually inspect your suitcase inside and out, paying close attention to pockets, seams, and linings for any signs of bed bugs such as dark spots, shed skins, or live insects. If you travel frequently, making this a routine step can help you spot potential issues early before they spread.”

When packing for a much-needed holiday, a doctor is reminding people to prioritise taking her top essentials, from the right medications to skincare products

When going abroad, many of us spend significant time planning our holiday outfits from packing our favourite swimsuit to stunning evening outfits or even activewear for exploring. However, a doctor is reminding people to make enough room in their cases for products to protect their skin, and medicines in case they get ill.

If you are travelling to place where the weather is warm, there’s no doubt that you need to pack suncream. However, Dr Raj Arora, who is a GP and TV doctor, insists that “SPF is just the start”. The passionate medical expert, who owns The Facebible clinic, has shared exactly what she packs in her bad to ensure she is covered in case she falls ill and her skin is protected.

The expert, who boasts over 188,000 followers on TikTok, shared a clip of her shopping in Superdrug recently. “Here’s what’s actually in my skincare bag when I’m on holiday,” she said in the video.

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First up, she highly recommends a hydration spray if you are travelling to a hot place. Dr Arora noted: “I always take a hydrating spray because the thing is if you’re hot and bothered and love to be in the water or just sitting sunbathing in the heat it’s something to hydrate your skin and refresh you.”

She recommends the 150ml Evian hydrating spray which will set you back £7.99 at Superdrug. However she notes that non-branded cooling sprays are also very good, and are typically cheaper.

The medical expert also suggests buying some after bite spray. She said: “Obviously if you’ve been bitten something cooling and calming for wasps, bees, mosquitos, calms your bite down and lets you get on with your holiday without scratching and itching and making a whole red inflamed state of your skin.”

Dr Arora recommends Jungle Formula, particularly if you are travelling somewhere where mosquitos are present. There are a number of different options from £6.59 to £10.

Sharing another suggestion, the doctor added: “Also Mozzipatch patches are great, just stick them on and wherever you are going in the evening, they can help to repel mosquitos as well.”

Three packets of 20 Mozzipatches can be purchased from Superdrug for £18.

The health expert also insists that you take some medication with you “just in case” of illness; it means you are prepared. She advises taking Calpol for children, Piriton in case of reactions and hay fever, as well as some paracetamol and ibuprofen.

She added: “But also make sure you’re getting yourself some strong antihistamines just in case you’re abroad, can’t get hold of them and you’ve reacted to something, your skin’s reacted.

“Sometimes your skin might reaction to a mosquito bite or an insect bite and that might flare up. An antihistamine can really reduce that and help the itch as well.”

Dr Arora also says it’s “really important to think about” packing something like an Aloe Vera. She added: “If you’ve got a bit of sunburn or some redness, or irritation, something like this can be really cooling and calming. Help you hydrate the skin and relieve the skin after being in the sun.”

Futhermore, she says she “can’t tell you how many times” she has been abroad and needed to some Dioralyte to help with food poisoning, stomach bugs and diarrhoea. “Honestly a life safer,” she insisted.

She also advises packing some antiseptic wipes in case you or children get any cuts or scrapes.

Do you take these essentials on holiday? Comment below…

There are certain seats on a plane that could become a nightmare on a long haul flight according to a travel expert – who shared her top tips when it comes to plane seat selection

When going on a long haul flight – experts urge people to never select these certain seats if they want a smooth journey. Flying long haul can already be hard, and it can be made even worse if you choose the wrong seat.

A travel expert has shared some of her top tips when it comes to where to sit on a plan for comfort, sleep quality and less disruptions on a long flight as poor sleep selection can make jet lag worse and leave people exhausted before their holiday has even started.

While people may think the window seat on the end row is the ideal spot for some peace and quiet, tucked away at the back – Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of Cheap Deals Away said “it’s actually a recipe for a miserable flight”.

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That back corner window seat might seem like the prime spot when you’re scrolling through the seat map, but it’s actually where comfort goes to die, the expert revealed. Located next to the toilets and galley, it will cause sleep disrupting problems,

“The biggest issue is the constant foot traffic,” Dawn said. “You’ve got passengers queuing for the loo right beside you, flight attendants rushing back and forth with trolleys, and people stretching their legs in the aisle. It never stops.” These seats also don’t recline because there’s a wall directly behind them. On a 10-hour flight to Asia or an 8-hour journey to the States, that upright position becomes torture for your back and makes proper sleep nearly impossible.

Dawn’s expert tips for choosing the perfect long-haul seat

Pick your sweet spot wisely

The best seats are typically in the middle section of the aircraft, she advised, away from both the busy front galley and the chaotic rear area. “Look for seats around rows 6-15 on most wide-body aircraft,” advised Dawn. “You’re far enough from the action but still have easy access to facilities when needed.”

Avoid the bathroom zone

Never book within three rows of any lavatory. The queues, smells and constant activity will make your journey miserable. Check the aircraft’s seat map carefully before selecting.

Choose your side strategically

“If you’re flying eastbound for a daytime arrival, pick a seat on the right side of the plane to avoid the sun streaming through your window during the final hours,” Dawn suggested. “For westbound flights, sit on the left side.”

Consider the exit rows carefully

While exit row seats offer extra legroom, they come with restrictions. You can’t store anything under the seat in front during takeoff and landing, and these seats often don’t recline.

Book early for best selection

“The golden rule is simple – book as early as possible,” says Dawn. “Airlines release their best seats to early bookers, and you’ll have the widest choice of positions.”

The expert said that while the back corner window seat might look appealing on the booking page, “you’ll regret it the moment you try to get comfortable,” and added: “Poor seat selection not only impacts your flight, but your entire trip. If you can’t sleep properly on the plane, you’ll arrive with worse jet lag, feeling cranky and tired. Your first few days of holiday are essentially written off while you recover.”

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