Yes, in most cases, you can reserve seats when booking cheap flights—but it depends on the airline’s policy, the fare type, and when you choose to book the seat. While budget fares often exclude free seat selection, many airlines now offer optional seat reservations for an extra fee during or after booking. 

Understanding when and how to reserve seats helps avoid surprises at check-in.

Seat Selection: What It Means and When It’s Offered

Seat selection means choosing your airplane seat in advance—whether it’s an aisle, window, or a seat with extra legroom. 

Most full-service airlines offer this during the booking process, while low-cost carriers treat it as an optional paid add-on.

When Can You Reserve a Seat?

You typically have three opportunities to reserve a seat:

• At the time of booking: Most airlines offer seat selection while you book. For cheap tickets, this may come with an added fee.
  
• After booking (via Manage My Booking): You can often return to your airline’s website or app and pay to choose a seat anytime before check-in opens.
  
• During online check-in: If you didn’t select a seat earlier, some airlines let you pick one during check-in, sometimes for free.

Do Budget Airlines Allow Seat Reservations?

Yes—but they almost always charge a fee. Here’s how it usually works on major low-cost carriers:

• Ryanair: Seat selection starts at €3–€15 per person, depending on the route and seat type. If you don’t pay, seats are randomly assigned during check-in.
  
• easyJet: Offers optional seat selection starting at about £4–£25. Prices increase for front-row or extra-legroom seats.
  
• Wizz Air: Allows seat selection from €2.50–€20. Basic fares don’t include seat choice.

If you skip seat selection, you’re assigned a random seat for free, often in the middle or at the back of the aircraft.

Can You Reserve Seats on Long-Haul Budget Flights?

Low-cost long-haul airlines, such as Norse Atlantic, French Bee, or ZIPAIR, also offer seat selection for a fee. Prices vary more widely:

• Norse Atlantic Airways: Seat fees range from $25 to $120+, depending on location (window/aisle vs. bulkhead/exit row).
  
• French Bee: Offers standard and XL seats; selection costs between €20 and €70 per leg.
  
• ZIPAIR: Prices vary depending on seat type (standard, comfort, or full-flat) and direction (to/from Japan), with seat selection starting at around $20.

If you want to sit with friends or family on these flights, reserving in advance is essential, as random seat allocation rarely keeps groups together.

How Much Does It Cost to Reserve a Seat?

Seat reservation fees vary by airline, route length, and seat type. Here’s what to expect:

Check the exact fee during booking—it’s often cheaper than adding it later or at the airport.

Can You Skip Seat Selection and Still Get a Good Seat?

Yes, but there’s a risk. If you’re traveling solo and don’t mind where you sit, skipping seat selection can save you money. However, if you’re flying with others and don’t choose a seat in advance, you may be split up, even with children.

Some airlines make an effort to seat families together, but this is not guaranteed unless you pay for specific seats.

Airline Policies to Know:

• British Airways: Attempts to seat families with children together, but recommends selecting seats to ensure this.
  
• Jet2: Random allocation for basic fares; sitting together is not guaranteed.
  
• Delta, American, United (USA): Basic Economy fares don’t include seat selection, and families can be split.

Tips for Reserving Seats on Cheap Flights

• Use the airline’s seat map: When booking, always check the seat map to see which seats are available and which ones require a fee.
  
• Book early: More seats are available when you book in advance. If you’re set on a window or aisle seat, don’t wait.
  
• Check credit card perks or elite status: Some frequent flyer programs or credit cards include free seat selection, even on discount fares.
  
• Look for package upgrades: Airlines sometimes offer bundles (e.g., “Value” or “Plus” fares) that include seats, luggage, and priority boarding at a reduced overall price.

When Is It Worth Paying to Reserve a Seat?

It’s worth paying if:

• You’re traveling with kids or in a group
  
• You need extra legroom (e.g., tall passengers)
  
• You prefer a specific location (front of plane, aisle for bathroom access, etc.)
  
• You want to guarantee a window for views or sleep

If none of those apply and you’re flying solo on a short flight, skipping seat selection is a reasonable way to save.

Seat Reservation on Cheap Flights: What to Know

You can usually reserve seats on cheap flights, but don’t assume it’s included. Most budget tickets exclude seat selection and require a small fee. 

Always check your airline’s specific policy and decide based on your comfort and travel priorities.

FAQs

Can I choose seats after booking a flight?

Yes. Most airlines let you return to your booking online and purchase a seat, even after the initial ticket purchase.

Are seats free on low-cost carriers?

No. Most budget airlines charge for seat selection. If you don’t pay, your seat will be assigned randomly at check-in.

Can I sit with my child on a cheap ticket?

Not always. Some airlines try to keep families together, but it’s not guaranteed unless you pay for seat selection.

Are exit row seats worth the price?

If you’re tall or need extra legroom, yes. But they cost significantly more, especially on long-haul flights.

Will I get a window or aisle seat if I don’t pay?

Possibly, but there’s no guarantee. You’ll likely be assigned a middle seat unless you choose and pay for one.

Do airline apps allow seat selection?

Yes. Most airline apps let you choose or change seats during booking or check-in, often with a fee for budget fares.

Can I change my seat after selecting one?

Usually yes, through the airline’s “Manage My Booking” section—but changes may come with an additional fee.

Do basic economy tickets include seat selection?

No. On many full-service airlines, basic economy tickets exclude free seat selection. You’ll need to pay to choose a seat.