16 Things Smart Travelers Never Do on a Flight

Flying can sometimes be stressful, but showing a little kindness and being considerate can make the experience better for everyone. Whether you fly a lot or only travel occasionally, there are some things to avoid doing that can help make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. To ensure a pleasant journey for yourself and those around you, here are some things you should never do while on a flight.

Ignoring Safety Instructions

Ignoring the safety instructions from the flight attendants isn’t just rude—it’s risky. These guidelines are crucial for your safety and could be lifesaving in an emergency. Even if you think you know everything, it’s important to pay attention each time. New aircraft might have different safety features and procedures.

Kicking The Seat In Front Of You

Kicking the seat in front of you is incredibly annoying for the person sitting there. It makes their flight uncomfortable and can lead to unnecessary arguments. Even if you’re restless, find other ways to adjust yourself. Keeping your feet still shows respect for other passengers and helps maintain a more peaceful environment on board.

Speaking Loud

Talking loudly on a flight can be really disruptive. Other passengers might be trying to sleep, read, or just enjoy a bit of quiet time. You should be considerate of those around you. Remember, sound carries easily in the confined space of an airplane, so keep your voice down to avoid disturbing others.

Pressing The Call Bell Unnecessarily

Using the call bell for non-urgent needs is a sure way to irritate the flight attendants and other passengers. Only press it if you truly need assistance. It’s there for emergencies, not for convenience. Overusing it can delay the crew’s response to more critical issues and disrupt their service flow.

Drinking Excessively

Overindulging in alcohol on a flight can lead to unpleasant behavior and health issues due to the altitude. Drink in moderation to avoid causing problems for yourself and those around you. Excessive drinking can impair your judgment and increase the risk of dehydration, making the flight uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.

Not Wearing Comfortable Clothes

Wearing tight or uncomfortable clothes can make a long flight feel miserable. Choose loose, breathable clothing to stay comfy throughout the journey. You’ll thank yourself later. Also, ensure you wear enough layers according to the cabin’s temperature and your destination’s weather.

Making Mess

Leaving a mess is inconsiderate to the cabin crew and other passengers. Clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly. It helps keep the plane clean and makes the flight more pleasant for everyone. Neatness shows respect for the shared space and makes the job easier for the cleaning crew preparing the aircraft for the next passengers.

Blocking The Aisle

Blocking the aisle with your bags or body can cause inconvenience and safety issues. Keep the aisle clear so everyone, including the flight attendants, can move around freely. A clear aisle is crucial for quick and safe evacuations in case of an emergency and ensures smooth service during the flight.

Staying Dehydrated

The air in the cabin is dry, and it’s easy to get dehydrated. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. It will help you feel better during the flight and reduce jet lag afterward. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your overall health and comfort, especially on long-haul flights.

Rushing Off When Plane Lands

Rushing to get off the plane as soon as it lands only creates chaos. Be patient, wait your turn, and get off calmly. It makes the process smoother for everyone. Standing up too quickly can also create a hurdle in the aisle, making it harder for everyone to retrieve their belongings and exit the aircraft smoothly.

Walking Around Without Socks Or Shoes

Walking around the plane without socks or shoes is not only unhealthy but can also be unpleasant for others. Always wear something on your feet when moving to keep things hygienic. Airplane floors, especially in restrooms, have germs and bacteria. Keeping your feet covered helps maintain hygiene and shows consideration for your fellow passengers.

Neglecting Personal Hygiene

Neglecting personal hygiene can make the flight uncomfortable for everyone around you. Make sure you’re clean and fresh before you board the flight. Good hygiene is not only courteous but also helps prevent the spread of germs in the confined space of an aircraft.

Taking Over The Armrests

Be considerate and share the armrests with your fellow passengers. Hogging them makes the flight uncomfortable for the person next to you. A little give and take can make the trip nicer for both of you. If you’re not sure, just ask the person next to you; it can even spark a friendly conversation and make the flight more pleasant.

Jumping The Line

Be patient and wait your turn to get off the plane. Cutting in line annoys everyone and just adds unnecessary stress. Boarding procedures are there to help get everyone seated quickly, so take a deep breath, relax, and go with the flow. It’ll make the process smoother for everyone.

Overpacking Your Carry-On

While you are allowed to carry small bags in-flight, you should be mindful not to carry large bags. Those are for the cargo department. Overpacking your carry-on may cause you trouble fitting it in the overhead compartment. This may slow down boarding and irritate both you and your fellow passengers. Only carry important stuff with you on your inflight, and put the rest in the main luggage.

Ignoring The Flight Crew

Flight attendants are there to help and keep everyone safe, so don’t brush them off. Ignoring their instructions or being rude to them can make the trip rough for everyone. Show them some respect and follow their guidance, as it makes the experience better for everyone on board.