Seat selection fee: when it's mandatory and when you can avoid it

At the last booking step a seat selection fee appears and you're not sure if it's mandatory. In most cases it's optional, but it depends on the fare.

Why it's charged

Basic fares

The cheapest fares usually assign a random seat at check-in, or charge extra if you want to choose.

Groups and families

If you travel together, it's best to pick seats when booking so you aren't separated, especially with children.

How to handle it

How to avoid the fee

Wait for online check-in, where assignment is sometimes free, or choose a fare that includes seat selection.

What to check

Look in the confirmation to see whether the seat is assigned and whether the charge appears only once in the summary.

A simpler way to check your trip

To check that the charges on your booking add up, upload your confirmations to AuditorTravel: it flags what doesn't add up with a traffic light (🟢 🟡 🔴) before you travel.

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AuditorTravel is an automated information tool; use it as a guide. The final decision is always yours.