If you can't sweet talk your way to an upgrade, there's another way to ensure a comfy flight

After months of bleak weather, the summer is just around the corner. While the usual whispers of weekend heatwaves in the UK have started, many of us are looking forward to jetting off for a sunny break abroad - whether it's a gorgeous Sicilian getaway or a wellness holiday in St Lucia. 

Whether your idea of the perfect holiday is sun, sea and sand or a trendy cruise, you'll want to make sure that when you land on the other side you're well rested. 

Obviously, getting upgraded is the dream. Who doesn't want to find themselves turning left when they board the plane? Or tucking into a gormet dinner? Surely everyone wants to settle into a nice cosy seat and enjoy a glass of bubbly without a screaming toddler kicking the back of your chair - right?

However, getting a flight upgrade isn't as easy as just asking the check in staff for one when you're dropping your bags off (and there's one thing you definitely don't shouldn't do if you want to be in with a chance).

Former flight attendant Lee Cobaj spoke to Skyscanner about what to do if you just can't get that flight upgrade - and revealed that there is another option if you can't quite secure that seat in First or Business Class. 

In fact, even if you're flying economy there's a very simple way to make sure that your trip is comfy and spacious. 

He explained: "It is a bit easier to bag an economy row to yourself. Chit-chat to the check-in staff and ask if the flight is full. If the answer is no, then request a seat in an empty row.

"You can also ask the cabin crew when you get onboard but wait until the flight is almost full, when they should know if and where the spare seats are."

While it's not quite the same as upgraded luxury, the extra space is very welcome - especially if you're on a long haul flight and you find yourself wedged into a variety of uncomfortable positions whilst trying to watch Finding Nemo.