‘I always check in late for flights and board the plane last – there’s a huge benefit’

Travel Expert Reveals the Benefits of Checking in Late and Boarding Plane Last

A travel expert recently shared a unique travel hack that could help travellers secure the best seats on a plane without paying extra costs. According to budget travel content creator Chelsea, arriving late for check-in and boarding the plane last might actually work to your advantage.

Many passengers are familiar with the struggle of long-haul flights and the desire for more comfortable seating arrangements. Chelsea’s ‘Check in Chicken’ technique takes advantage of airlines’ tendency to charge higher fees for preferred seats, leading to scattered groupings throughout the plane and less desirable seating options being allocated first.

As check-in deadlines approach, the remaining seats tend to be the more desirable ones, such as those with extra legroom. Chelsea, who has gained popularity on TikTok with over 5.5 million likes, suggests that delaying check-in could potentially result in scoring premium upfront seating or seats with extra legroom.

She highlighted that airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air often charge for seat assignments, split up groups travelling together and assign passengers to less favourable seats. Chelsea recounted her experience with Wizz Air, where she chose to check in just five hours before her flight and successfully secured better seating options.

While the strategy can be rewarding, Chelsea cautioned against waiting too long to avoid being left without a seat altogether. She advised passengers to monitor the seating plan and check in when desirable seats are still available throughout the day.

This unconventional approach has sparked mixed reactions online, with some travellers confirming its success while others shared differing outcomes. Some cautioned that the risk involved might not be worth it, while others praised the hack for its effectiveness in securing better seats.

In conclusion, Chelsea’s unconventional travel hack challenges conventional wisdom and offers a new perspective on securing optimal seating arrangements on flights. By embracing the element of risk and strategic timing, passengers may have the opportunity to elevate their travel experience without incurring additional costs.