A new trend in air travel called “check-in chicken” has been gaining attention on social media as travelers share a savvy trick to get the best seats on a plane for free. This hack involves waiting until check-in is almost closed before reserving a seat, in the hopes of snagging one with extra legroom or by an emergency exit. Travel influencer and cheap holiday expert Chelsea Dickenson highlighted this hack on her TikTok channel, explaining that airlines often separate parties traveling together by placing them in undesirable seats, leaving the coveted spots available for those who wait.
However, while the “check-in chicken” tactic may help you secure a better seat without paying extra fees, there is a significant risk involved. Chelsea warned that if the flight is overbooked, waiting until the last minute to check in could leave you without a seat altogether. Therefore, it is recommended to keep a close eye on seat availability throughout the day and not leave it until the very last minute. Additionally, this strategy can add unnecessary stress to your travel day, according to travel expert Adam Duckworth. He emphasized that regularly monitoring seat maps to successfully utilize this hack can be time-consuming and may not be worth the effort for some travelers.
Adam further advised against obsessing over perfecting the “check-in chicken” technique, as it may not always yield successful results and could lead to losing your seat altogether if done incorrectly. He suggested that travelers consider the value of their time and whether spending hours monitoring seat availability is worth the potential benefits of getting a better seat. This trend has emerged as travelers seek ways to enhance their flying experience without incurring additional costs, but it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits before attempting this hack.
In addition to “check-in chicken,” another popular air travel hack called “gate licing” has gained traction, particularly during the pandemic. This term refers to passengers crowding around boarding gates before their designated boarding time in a bid to be among the first to board the plane and secure overhead locker space for their bags. The behavior is often driven by a fear of not finding space for carry-on luggage or missing out on preferred seating. Psychologists suggest that seeing others lining up can create a sense of urgency and prompt individuals to follow suit, even if the benefits are not entirely clear.
Ultimately, both “check-in chicken” and “gate licing” demonstrate how travelers are seeking ways to optimize their flying experience and avoid additional costs or inconveniences. While these hacks may offer potential benefits, such as securing a better seat or overhead bin space, they also come with risks and may not be suitable for everyone. It is essential for travelers to consider their priorities, time constraints, and tolerance for uncertainty before attempting these strategies. As the travel industry continues to evolve, travelers are likely to explore new ways to navigate the challenges of air travel and enhance their overall journey.
