Anyone who has ever been assigned the dreaded middle seat on a plane knows the struggles that come with it. You’re sandwiched between two passengers, elbow space is limited, and you’re left with little to no control over your environment. But fear not! With a few smart strategies, you can make the most of your time in the middle seat and perhaps even enjoy the experience a bit more. Here are expert-approved tips to survive (and even thrive) in the middle seat.
Invest in a Good Neck Pillow
One of the most common complaints from middle seat passengers is the discomfort that comes with trying to sleep in a cramped position. To ease this, a good neck pillow can be a game-changer. As travel expert Brandon Berkson of Hotels Above Par advises, opt for a memory foam pillow that hugs your neck, preventing your head from bobbing around while you try to rest. Fellow expert Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago, agrees, saying that a neck pillow is essential since not all planes offer adjustable headrests. A comfortable pillow helps you rest your head without relying on the airplane wall for support.
If you’re particularly prone to neck pain while traveling, Jesse Neugarten from Dollar Flight Club suggests looking into the Trtl pillow, which provides excellent neck support and helps avoid that annoying head tilt during naps. Combine that with compression socks and a light blanket for added comfort.
Don’t Forget an Eye Mask
Light can be a major disruptor when you’re trying to sleep, and sitting in the middle seat means you can’t control how much light comes in from the window. Schwab recommends bringing an eye mask to block out any bright lights around you, ensuring you can rest even if your neighbor keeps the window open or the cabin lights are on.
Get Noise-Canceling Headphones
Another must-have for surviving the middle seat? Noise-canceling headphones. According to Berkson, these are essential to block out the ambient noise, especially the hum of the engines and any noisy passengers nearby. If you’re wondering which pair to go for, Neugarten recommends the Sony WH1000XM3 for their superior sound isolation, allowing you to escape into your own world—no matter how loud the environment is.
Claim Your Armrests
It may sound like a minor issue, but the battle for armrests is real in the middle seat. As Berkson puts it, it’s an unspoken rule: the person in the middle seat gets both armrests. Don’t hesitate to assert this claim from the moment you sit down. Be polite, of course, but make it clear that you’re using the armrests for comfort. Having control over your immediate space, even if it’s just the armrests, can make the whole experience a lot more bearable.
Maximize Foot Space by Using the Overhead Bin
You might be tempted to store your carry-on under the seat in front of you, but Jo Hayes, an expert in travel etiquette, recommends using the overhead compartment whenever possible. Storing your bag overhead frees up space around your feet and makes the cramped middle seat feel less congested. This small adjustment can make a big difference, especially if you’re tall or like to stretch out a bit.
Keep Small Essentials Within Reach
For small items that you need throughout the flight—like your phone, wallet, or charger—consider investing in a fanny pack or small pouch. Natalie Ballad, founder of Ojala, swears by a small fanny pack to keep her essentials close, preventing her from fumbling around for things in the overhead bin or under the seat. This is especially useful for middle seat passengers who have limited access to their belongings during the flight.
Bring Extra Padding and Layers
If you’re looking for additional comfort, consider bringing extra padding or layers. Business traveler Tiffany Banks recommends a foldable gel cushion for added support. She places it on her seat and even adds a jacket on top for extra cushioning. This trick can help alleviate the physical discomfort of being stuck in one place for hours.
If you’re not a fan of extra accessories, Joe Cronin, president of International Citizens Insurance, suggests wearing layers to ensure you’re comfortable no matter the temperature. A hoodie or light jacket can double as a cushion for your neck or back if you need extra support.
Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks
Middle seat passengers often find it difficult to move around, making it essential to stay hydrated. Berkson recommends bringing a reusable water bottle to avoid relying on the tiny cups the airline gives out. Having your own water ensures that you can drink whenever you need to without waiting for the flight attendants.
Don’t forget snacks! Berkson notes that it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks, especially if you’re particular about what you eat. Whether you prefer Goldfish crackers or Sour Patch Kids, having something familiar and enjoyable can make the middle seat experience a little more tolerable.
Prepare for Comfort with Entertainment
Being stuck in the middle seat can make long flights feel even longer. To pass the time, make sure you have plenty of entertainment. Dean Van Es, CEO of Fast Cover Travel Insurance, advises that having a tablet or portable gaming console is a great way to distract yourself and escape the discomfort of the middle seat. If you’re more of a bookworm, a good novel can make the flight feel like it’s flying by.
Remember, It’s Only Temporary
Finally, it’s important to remember that the middle seat is only a temporary inconvenience. As Christian Bumpous, a former flight attendant and now therapist, puts it, “Try to see the middle seat as an opportunity to practice patience and adaptability.” A simple breathing exercise, like the 4-4-4-4 method (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and pause for 4 seconds), can do wonders for relaxation during your flight.
With these tips, you can transform your middle seat experience from a dreaded inconvenience into a much more comfortable and manageable part of your travel journey. Remember, the key to surviving the middle seat is all about making small adjustments to maximize comfort and take control of your space. Safe travels!
