It’s no secret that flying can be stressful, especially when dealing with other passengers. While you can’t control what other people do, you can certainly be in control of yourself – and these tips on aeroplane etiquette (which I got from this fantastic infographic) will help you be the person everyone prays they get to sit next to on a plane.
Drink Responsibly
It’s perfectly fine to have a tipple or two to relax, but make sure not to overdo it. No one wants to be the passenger who’s had one too many, smells of booze and has to clamber over everyone to use the loo every ten minutes. Keep your drinks to a minimum and wait until you land to go crazy.
Plan Your Bathroom Breaks
Speaking of getting up to use the loo… Pick and choose appropriate times to leave your seat. For example, if a flight attendant is in the aisle with a cart or dinner has just been served, it’s a good idea to wait until later to get up. Once in the lavatory, don’t make a mess and take as little time as possible. Other people have to get in there too, you know!
Keep to Yourself
Aeroplanes are notoriously small spaces, so it can be difficult to maintain as much personal space as you normally would – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to be as respectful as possible. A little bit goes a long way: for example, don’t hog the overhead bin. If you have two carry-on bags, put one under your seat so you’re not taking up more than your fair share of room.
Of course you’ll want to get comfortable and maybe even try to nap. If you choose to recline your seat, make sure you won’t be disturbing the person behind you by jostling them (you don’t want to accidentally spill their drink, after all). It’s also important to ensure you’re upright during mealtimes so they have enough room to eat comfortably. If you’re able to fall asleep on planes, think about investing in a neck pillow – you don’t want to wake up and find you’ve been drooling on your neighbour’s shoulder.
Keep these jetiquette tips in mind so that next time you board an aeroplane there will be nothing but clear skies ahead of you.
