Why I’ll Always Choose the Window Seat (Even If It Means Crawling Over People to Pee)

Confession time: I’m one of those people who will always, without fail, choose the window seat on a flight. Whether it’s a short hop to the next state or a long-haul flight across the ocean, you’ll find me tucked into that little corner by the window, staring out at the clouds like it’s the first time I’ve ever seen the sky. There’s just something magical about being perched up there, 30,000 feet above the world, watching the landscape scroll by like a live-action Google Earth.

But let’s be real for a second—choosing the window seat comes with its own set of challenges. For starters, there’s the inevitable moment when you need to use the bathroom. And if you’re like me, you always seem to have the worst timing. The aisle seat occupant just fell into a deep sleep, or they’re engrossed in a movie with headphones on, completely oblivious to your increasingly urgent situation.

Cue the awkward decision-making process: Do you tap them on the shoulder and risk the dreaded glare? Do you try to hold it and hope for a miracle (spoiler alert: that never ends well)? Or do you attempt the gymnastics of crawling over them without disturbing their peaceful slumber? I’ve tried all three, and let me tell you, none of them are ideal. But even with this minor inconvenience, the window seat is still where I’ll be every time.

Here’s why: the view from the window seat is unbeatable. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of watching the world go by beneath you—cities and towns shrinking into tiny dots, rivers snaking their way through the landscape, and mountains rising majestically out of the earth. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a sunset or sunrise from up there? Forget about it. It’s pure, unfiltered magic.

I’ve spent countless hours pressed up against that little window, completely mesmerized by the view. There’s something so peaceful about it—almost meditative. Whether it’s the patchwork of fields below, the endless blue of the ocean, or the cotton-candy clouds floating by, the view from the window seat never gets old. It’s a reminder that the world is vast, beautiful, and full of surprises. Plus, let’s be honest, it makes for some killer Instagram shots. #WindowSeatViews, anyone?

But the benefits of the window seat don’t stop at the view. There’s also the built-in headrest. Sure, airplane pillows and neck pillows are great and all, but nothing beats leaning your head against the side of the plane for a quick nap. It’s like having your own personal nook—a tiny escape from the chaos of the crowded cabin. And let’s not forget the ability to control the window shade. Want to block out the sun for a snooze? Done. Want to let in some light to read your book? Easy. It’s the small things that make all the difference.

Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention one of the biggest perks of the window seat: avoiding the dreaded drink cart dance. You know what I’m talking about—the awkward moment when you’re in the aisle seat, and the flight attendants roll the cart down the aisle just as you’re trying to stretch your legs or make a dash to the bathroom. Suddenly, you’re trapped, contorting yourself into impossible positions to avoid getting your toes run over by the cart wheels. It’s not fun, and it’s one more reason why the window seat is the place to be.

Of course, the window seat isn’t for everyone. Some people prefer the freedom of the aisle seat—the ability to get up and stretch without disturbing anyone, or the extra legroom that comes with sticking one foot into the aisle (just watch out for that cart!). And then there are the middle seat folks, bless them, who somehow survive the flight sandwiched between two people they probably don’t know, with no view and limited personal space. I salute you, middle seat warriors. You’re the real MVPs.

But for me, the window seat is where it’s at. Yes, I’ll put up with the occasional awkward bathroom situation and the challenge of trying to wriggle out of my seat without waking up my neighbors. Because for all its minor inconveniences, the window seat offers something that no other seat can: a front-row view to the world’s greatest show.

So, next time you’re booking a flight, consider giving the window seat a try. You might just find yourself getting lost in the view, feeling that same sense of wonder and awe that keeps me coming back to the window seat, flight after flight. And who knows—maybe you’ll even find yourself joining the ranks of us dedicated window seat lovers. Just don’t forget to plan your bathroom breaks accordingly.