If you’re someone who tends to get motion sickness while flying, choosing the right seat can make a big difference in how you feel during the flight. According to a British Airways flight attendant with seven years of experience, one of the worst places to sit on an airplane if you get sick easily is at the back.
She explained that turbulence is always more noticeable in the rear of the plane, so for travelers prone to queasiness, that area should be avoided at all costs. Instead, she recommends sitting in the middle of the aircraft, particularly over the wings. This part of the plane is more stable and less affected by turbulence, making it a much better choice for a smoother ride. On top of that, she advises choosing an aisle seat whenever possible.
Not only does this help reduce anxiety related to looking out from high altitudes, but it also gives passengers more freedom to get up and move around, which can ease feelings of claustrophobia. It’s a practical choice for those who may need to walk a bit to settle their nerves or make frequent trips to the restroom. The flight attendant also shared a simple but often overlooked tip: use the air vent above your seat. The cool air it provides can help regulate body temperature and reduce the symptoms of motion sickness. That small stream of airflow can provide just enough relief to prevent nausea from kicking in. If you do start feeling unwell during your flight, the in-flight entertainment system can be a helpful distraction.
While watching TV might make some people feel worse, many planes now offer audio-only options, such as music or podcasts, which can be easier on the senses and help redirect your attention. For those who need medical insight, Dr. Danielle Qing, an internal medicine physician, recommends staying seated if you’re starting to feel sick. She says keeping your head down and eyes closed can lower your center of gravity, helping you feel more stable and less dizzy.
It’s best to remain still and avoid unnecessary movement, especially when turbulence is present. Meanwhile, for those planning a vacation, another flight attendant has shared her favorite place to sit: row five. Rosie Awad, who has spent ten years working for Virgin Australia, revealed that the fifth row offers several benefits that make it ideal for travelers. From this row, passengers typically have a great view of the wing, enjoy extra legroom, and don’t have the added responsibility of being near an emergency exit. It’s also close to the front of the plane, making it quicker to get off upon landing and among the first to be served during in-flight service. On top of that, you can still place your bag under the seat in front of you—something you can’t always do in exit rows. However, she did mention one slightly awkward aspect of sitting in the fifth row: you’re usually facing toward the main cabin. This can result in some uncomfortable eye contact with other passengers, turning into an unintentional staring contest. Still, for most people, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback. On the other end of the spectrum, both attendants agree that the least desirable seats on a plane are those in the last row or any located near the bathrooms. Seats at the back of the aircraft are not only bumpier due to turbulence but are also often the last to receive food and drink service. Add to that the frequent bathroom traffic and potential for unpleasant odors, and it’s no wonder these seats are considered the worst. In summary, if you’re someone who struggles with motion sickness or just wants a more comfortable flight, aim for a seat near the wings in the middle of the plane, preferably on the aisle. Use the air vent to your advantage, choose audio entertainment to distract yourself, and stay seated with your head down if you start to feel off. And if you’re lucky enough to grab a spot in row five, you might just enjoy one of the best seats in the cabin—minus the awkward stares. Avoiding the back of the plane and seats near lavatories can save you from a lot of unnecessary discomfort, making your trip much more enjoyable from takeoff to landing.