Even when everything is going well, air travel can be quite stressful. Sometimes, it’s not the delayed flights that are most frustrating but sharing the cramped spaces of an airplane with someone you don’t know, especially if they have no respect for others. These tips will help you be a good seatmate and offer others seated next to you to do the same.
Boarding
Airline passengers are boarded according to their zone or seat. It’s important that airlines give boarding orders. This helps to manage the flow of people as well as ensures an orderly boarding process. It’s fair to honor the privilege of boarding first, as those who do have probably paid for it.
Greet the flight attendants
When you board your flight, acknowledge the flight attendants. Speak to them, smile at them they have a job to do that is much harder than people know. Also, fi didn’t know flight attendants scan all passengers when they board to see what they might be dealing with during the flight. So leave a good impression.
Storage
The overhead compartments are limited in space and should be used for items that cannot fit under the seat in front. Do your fellow passengers a favor by storing small purses or carry-ons under the seat in front of you. You’ll be able to access it when you need it even during times you need to remain seated.
Be sensitive to your seatmate
Acknowledge your seatmate with a greeting as you get settled in and then you can start to read the person to see whether he/she wants to talk or not. Most people really want to find some peace and quiet time. If the other person is the chatty type and you are not, politely excuse yourself. That is the time to bring out your book or put on your headphones and say, ‘Excuse me, but I am going to listen to some music now.’
Give the middle passenger a break
If you got the aisle or window seat you are lucky and yes, you already have a least one armrest. Let that person in the middle seat have the armrests. That is really the only thing they have going for them. They have no view and no easy access to the aisle. So be nice.
Before the Recline
The most controversial issue in air travel is whether you should recline your chair when there is someone behind you. Although you are entitled to recline your seat, it can impede the space of those behind you and cause discomfort. You can recline for comfort or sleep, but it is a nice gesture if you inform the person behind you first. You should let them know that you plan to recline. This will allow them to arrange any items, such as a cup of coffee that might spill or a laptop that might be damaged.
Volume
Pay attention to the volume of your electronic devices. Even if you have your headphones plugged in, your seatmates might be able to hear it due to the volume.
Stay hydrated
We know it’s fun to get drunk at 30,000 feet, but it’s also much easier to get dehydrated. So staying hydrated — especially on long-haul flights — is very important and makes it easier to get over jet lag too.
Control the kids
Traveling can be stressful for some and doing it with kids doesn’t make things easier. Nevertheless, if you are traveling with young companions make sure they are not bothering other passengers. You know, like jumping and bouncing around, screaming and kicking the seat in front of them. That will really get the ire of the person in front of you.
Fragrances & Scents
It’s impossible to predict who you might end up sitting next to, and what their tolerance for strong fragrances or lotions may be. Some people can get migraines and headaches from strong fragrances. You can bring unscented lotions for the plane, or wait until you have disembarked before using your scented products.
Disembarking
It can be tempting to grab all your belongings and rush to your destination as soon as the plane lands. It would be chaotic to try and disembark everyone who did this. Be patient. It’s polite to let the people standing in front of you leave first and then all follow in order. This allows everyone to exit in an orderly manner.
Thank the crew
This team of highly trained professionals has worked hard to get you to your destination safely and comfortably. Let them know you appreciate them. Giving them a warm smile and a sincere “thank you” as you exit the plane will lift their spirits—and yours.
Airport Moving Walkways
They are available at many airports. They can be a relief for tired feet and can speed up your pace if you’re in a hurry. Nearly all walkways have the sign “Walk on the left, Stand on the Right”. So don’t be that guy. It can be really frustrating for travelers who are trying to get to their next flight in a hurry and want to speed by, only to find someone standing smack in the middle of the walkway with their bags by their sides. Please follow the guidelines for the Moving Walkways.
Read more Travel Tips here.
