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An often overlooked code on boarding passes could mean Brits are denied boarding the plane next time they go on holiday.

It's searingly disappointing when an airline oversells a flight. It means they have to deny some passengers and risk cancelling their holiday, often ending in tears.

To decide which unlucky customer gets left behind, they look at the order they checked in for the flight. That's why it's advisable not to leave online check-in to the last minute.

You can easily find out by looking at the "SEQ" number on your boarding pass, according to SCS Chauffeurs, a luxury airport transfer provider. A low number is better - a SEQ of 001 means you were the first to check in, whereas 152 means you were the 152nd.

It's especially budget airlines that are oversold, and it's increasingly common during peak periods.

If you're one of the last to check in, you're more likely to be at the bottom of the priority list. If you're travelling alone or without luggage, or paid the lowest fare, it also makes you more likely to be left at the airport.

More than 6 million passengers were denied boarding globally in the last year, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Many were unaware that early check-in could have protected their seats.

"Airlines tend to overbook flights as not all passengers turn up on the day. When a flight is so overbooked that passengers are denied boarding or offloaded, the airline will usually ask for volunteers.

"But if no one comes forward, each airline will deny boarding to passengers in line with its own policies. For many airlines, this involves using the SEQ number as a fair tie-breaker."

Most airlines allow online check-in 24-48 hours before departure, and it's your safest bet to do it as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Then check your SEQ code and have backup plans for if you're booted.

When travelling with friends or family, always try to check in together so you aren't split up.