Flying puts you in close quarters with strangers and can really test your patience, which makes etiquette even more important.
Nobody’s perfect, and small oversights can frustrate fellow travelers. Here’s a list of airplane etiquette most people are often guilty of that can be avoided to make the flight more pleasant.
Keep Conversations Low
It’s easy to get carried away, but loud conversations can disrupt those around you, especially if they’re trying to sleep or focus.
Keep your voice at a low volume, and if you’re in a group, save longer talks for the terminal. The whole plane doesn’t need to hear your life story. If it’s a quiet flight, take the hint and stick to short, quiet exchanges.
Wait to Stand After Landing
The plane lands, and half the passengers immediately stand up, cramming the aisles with nowhere to go. It doesn’t speed anything up.
Stay seated until the rows ahead of you start moving. Standing early just creates awkwardness for those around you. Use the time to gather your belongings so you’re ready when it’s your turn.
Follow Crew Instructions
Ignoring the crew’s instructions causes unnecessary delays and risks. When they ask you to stay seated, stow your bag, or turn off your phone—they are trying to keep everything safe and organized.
Pay attention during the safety briefing instead of scrolling on your phone. Following instructions, like fastening your seatbelt or staying seated, ensures a smooth flight.
Dispose of Trash Properly
Leaving trash in the seatback pocket creates extra work for the crew and inconvenience for the next passenger.
Hold onto your wrappers, cups, and tissues until the flight attendants come by to collect them. If you finish early, hand it to them directly when they pass. Keep your area clean, and double-check your seat before leaving.
Bring Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones keep you comfortable and courteous on a plane. They block out the constant hum of the engines and other passengers’ noise, making it easier to relax.
If you’re watching a movie or listening to music, keep the volume low to avoid disturbing others. They’re also a big help if you’re trying to nap without interruptions.
Bring Travel-Friendly Toiletries
Dragging bulky toiletries onto a plane is more trouble than it’s worth. Travel-sized options or refillable containers work better for essentials like toothpaste, hand cream, or deodorant.
Keep them organized in a clear zippered bag to prepare for TSA checks. Use leak-proof bottles and tighten caps to avoid spills. Skip overpowering fragrances to avoid annoying others.
Place Bags Over Your Own Seat
Putting your bag in an overhead bin far from your seat makes things harder for everyone. It forces other passengers to search for space near their seats while your bag is elsewhere.
Keep your carry-on directly above or near your seat. If the bin is full, ask a flight attendant for help.
Avoid Blocking Boarding Passengers
Blocking the aisle during boarding is a surefire way to annoy the people behind you. When you reach your seat, step aside or into your row to let others pass.
If you need something from your bag, wait until there’s a break in the line or after boarding. Don’t hold up the line by blocking the aisle.
Keep the Window Shade in Mind
The window shade might feel like your choice, but it also affects others in your row. Bright sunlight can glare off screens or disturb someone’s rest.
If you’re unsure, simply ask, “Do you mind if I adjust this?” Keep it closed during early flights or when the sun shines directly in. On the other hand, if others prefer it open, try to be flexible.
Roll Your Bag Quietly
A suitcase with worn-out wheels can make a lot of noise in the airport and on the plane. Before flying, check that your bag rolls smoothly to avoid unnecessary racket.
If your bag makes noise during boarding or deplaning, lift it to keep the aisle quiet. Quiet rolling is especially important on early or late flights when others may be sleeping.
Avoid Standing in the Aisle Too Long
Lingering in the aisle, whether during boarding or while grabbing your bag, slows everyone down. Step aside or sit down as soon as you reach your row to keep things moving.
When deplaning, stay seated until it’s your turn to move. Blocking the aisle frustrates those trying to pass.
Label Your Luggage Clearly
Luggage mix-ups happen all the time. Add a tag with your name and phone number, and include something that stands out, like a bright strap or a unique charm.
Make sure the tag is securely attached to prevent it from falling off. Personalizing your luggage takes little effort and can save you unnecessary delays.
Carry Reusable Water Bottles
Carrying a reusable water bottle makes flying easier and more convenient. Keep it empty through security, then fill it at a water station or fountain in the terminal.
A secure-lidded bottle prevents spills in your bag. Staying hydrated is important on a flight, and having your own bottle means you don’t have to wait for service.
Keep Shoes On (or Bring Slippers)
Nobody enjoys seeing bare feet on a plane. Bring lightweight slippers or socks if you want to remove your shoes.
Avoid putting your feet on the seat or sticking them into the aisle. Planes aren’t the place for bare feet, so having slippers is an easy way to stay comfortable without crossing any lines.
Use the Call Button Wisely
Using the call button too often or for minor requests can disrupt the crew’s workflow. Press it only when you need urgent help or can’t leave your seat, like during turbulence.
If it’s not urgent, wait for the crew to pass through the aisle. Don’t treat the button like a personal service bell.
