Room to Move

Savvy travelers know to ask for the front bulkhead seats in economy to get a little extra leg room. But are they the best place to sit? After all bulkhead seats offer no storage place in the seat in front and are often near the lavatory and galley, creating extra noise and traffic. Some tips on maximizing your space in economy:

• Ask. The best way get a good seat is to request one. Counter agents will often do what is most convenient for the airline, not you. Seat assignments can sometimes be booked by a travel agent in advance.
• Make sure that you get the seat that reclines. The last rows in a cabin section and rows near emergency exits often have seats that don't tilt back.
• Spread out. When traveling as a couple on a flight that isn't full, ask for the aisle and window seats, in the hope that no one will take the middle seats. If someone does get it, offer them the aisle or window to reunite.
• Request seats near the front of the cabin. Meals are often served earlier and you can get off quicker when deplaning.
• Show up early. The best seats go first, so don't wait until the last minute to ask for good spot.
• Size matters. Larger planes have more room. Some airlines will run a smaller, older plane and a gleaming new 747jumbo jet on the same route at different times. Get on the big one if you can.

If you are on more than a short hop in economy, it is worth the time to do a little research in advance and see where you would like to be seated. Many airlines offer seating charts on line.