sz9144 said:
we booked last minute and were not able to get seats together, even tho I am traveling with 2 toddlers, picture that!
question is:
will I be able to change my seat assignments using the resort check in service, or will I have to handle that at the airport? If I can't change seats at the resort, is it even worth doing remote check in just to have to recheck in at the airport?
I am so nervous about this- it's our first family vacation ever and of course this snafoo with seats has me a wreck!
First, call your airline for several days prior to departure and the morning of departure. On several airlines, elite frequent fliers often upgrade from coach to first class during the days before the flight, freeing up seats in coach.
Ideally, you'll already have new seat assignments by the time you get to the Resort Airline Check-in desk at your resort. But, even if you don't, you might as well check your luggage there. With two toddlers, you'll appreciate not having to handle your luggage and their luggage, while keeping track of them as well. (I don't know if the airlines allow the BAGS employees at Resort Airline Check-in to change seat assignments.)
At the airport, you can try again to change your seats, either at the ticket counter or at the departure gate. Some airlines also have service centers in the departure area. So if there isn't an agent at the check-in counter at your gate, look for the service center or for another departure gate for the same airline. Chances are good that they'll be able to help you. There are some seats that are not available for advance seat selection, but that are under gate agent control.
Finally, if all else fails, you can trade seats once you're on the aircraft. As soon as someone realizes that they'll be sitting next to a toddler who is separated from his or her family, I think you'll find people very eager to move.
