Those who are jetting off on holiday this summer will be aware of the extra charges that come with flying abroad, like overweight luggage and plane seat fees.
Budget airlines easyJet and Ryanair are some of many airlines that charge passengers extra to choose their seats on the plane. This is an unwanted addition to holiday costs that can already feel like they are piling up.
But according to one expert, it could be worth getting random seats for cheaper - and chancing your luck once aboard the aircraft. Jane Hawkes, a former flight attendant and consumer expert, spoke to The Express about the best ways to increase your chances of sitting next to your travel companion on the plane.
Jane said: " Obviously if you’re travelling with children you might not want to do this.
"Because if you’re travelling as a family, you’ll probably want your children with you to keep an eye on them. But if you’re travelling with friends or a partner, then never pay to book a seat together.
"Just wait to get onboard and then say ‘we’re travelling together and we didn’t realise we’d be separated’. You could just ask other passengers around you who can be very accommodating.
"It’s worth asking but there’s not much point asking before you get onboard."
If solo travellers end up sitting between mates or family members, they may be happy to swap so a group can sit together.
However, passengers may be more willing to swap if it’s an opportunity to switch out of the undesirable middle seat.
Middle seat passengers don't enjoy their time typically, as they are squashed between two people, and won't be able to look out the window.
On Ryanair, those under 12-years-old must be seated next to an adult - and the airline will allow passengers a free allocated seat for four children per adult.
Ryanair seats cost around £2.50 per standard seat - with extra legroom setting you back £11.94.
Jane also shared a secret that could help passengers make some extra cash, or bag some freebies while at the airport.
She said: "Mystery shopping is a way to pass time at the airport but it’s also a way of making a little bit of money. Most companies will offer a variety of mystery shopping tasks but not all of them will offer airports."
Mystery shopping is when people pretend to be a normal customer and judge how well a shop performs.
If passengers have time to kill at the airport, it could be a way to earn a little extra cash for a holiday treat.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
