Window or aisle seat when flying alone with an 18 month old?

[Msgiggles30]

Hi all,
Going to be flying alone with my 18 month old on a 4 hour flight. I'm going to book extra legroom as the thought of her on my lap in a tiny space is not fun! Would people recommend the isle or window seat? Thinking isle is easier to get up and walk about but window might be good for extra distraction and more private for hopeful sleep etc 🙃.
Also any tips on what to bring to entertain? Thank youp

Aisle seat for sure, as PP I wrapped up some small, cheap toys, just from the Works, about 20 mins with each item and cuddles. I also used to give a dose of Calpol about 20 minutes before take off

Aisle, definitely. Both for better leg room and easier to get out.

And be sure to pack a change of clothes for the wee one, and probably at least a top for you, because I can absolutely guarantee that s/he will spill and/or smear food/drink over him/herself, and probably you, too - and likely manage some sort of wee/poo leakage.

Can you tell I’m speaking from experience here?

Oh - run them ragged in the airport before you board. Walk and run as much as you can. There is usually a play area as well.

Aisle seat

And I would imagine that the person who arrives for the window seat will ask to be moved anyway.

Safe trip

I'd forgotten about the change of clothes. I used to pack spares for dd when she was a baby and toddler but didn't think of doing that for myself. I learned my lesson the hard way after she was sick on me!

If your budget will stretch to an extra seat, I would. I’d also check if your car seat is slim enough to fit on the flight seat. It’s so much easier strapping them into their car seat on the flight where they’ll likely comfortably sleep rather than them flopping around on the plane seat.

They’re good up to age 2.

They normally only let you book window because that's where the spare oxygen mask is. An infant also prevents easy exit for other passengers so they don't like you having the aisle. Just book a second seat. It's going to be really uncomfortable for both of you and your neighbour. Your legs will have gone numb within half an hour. If you can't afford to, you can't really afford to go.