If you’re trying to book a ticket online, the hard part is often finding an available airplane seat that doesn’t require you to pay more than the base fare.

Inevitably, online airline seating charts tend to show you what you think are the ONLY available seats.

More often than not, what’s being displayed are the dreaded middle seats.

If you want an aisle or a window, chances are they’ll be available in the more expensive preferred or premium economy sections, which require an additional fee.

If you don’t want to spend that additional money, you’ll be flying very far from first class—I prefer to call it LAST class.

But does it have to be that way? Not at all.

Airlines almost always hold back seats, and the best way to find them is to ignore the websites and call the airline directly—AFTER you’ve booked and paid for your flight.

Have a conversation.

Let them know you can’t seem to find a single window or aisle seat, or if you’re traveling with your family, let them know you really need to sit with your other family members.

More often than not, you’ll end up with better seats without having to pay the extra fees.

But if the person on the other end of the phone isn’t cooperative, there’s a simple solution.

Be nice, but end the call and hang up. Then call back until you find someone more understanding.

For more information about booking airline tickets, check out:

• The Problem With Ticket Change Fees
• Booking Online? Why the Country of Origin Matters
• The Best Day to Buy Airline Tickets

Keep reading for more travel tips.