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As an additional point....Once you`re off the plane and waiting to collect your luggage from the carousel, stand well back from the carousel. I PROMISE you will be able to see your bags coming well before they reach you. Then, walk forwards, collect your bag, & leave. This stops the idiotic practice of crowds leaning over each other, fighting for the front spot, trying to spot their bag stopping everyone else spotting their bag.
I always go to the last part of the luggage belts as the rush to get the bags & stand there like a moron whilst others want their bags too. I hate the family meetings around the luggage belts with 40 people waiting for 2 bags blocking access.
@@Svenne23 On an International Flight to USA once - it was a fight to get on as they boarded in First - Business & people needing help. Then we had people with kids & then the cattle class. I watched these people rumble on & rumble off only to stand around the luggage carousel to get their bags first.
The best thing I ever saw flight attendants do was on a flight from Philadelphia to Las Vegas. It was our last flight coming home from Europe and we were very tired. The plane was full of rowdies, all getting ready to party and win in LV. As soon as the captain said everyone should fasten seat belts as we were descending for landing, most people got out of their seats to get their luggage out of overhead bins so they could rush off the plane. The flight attendants, rather than arguing with people, just shut off all the lights. It was total darkness, like being in a black tube. We knew this wasn't his first rodeo. 🤣
Yeah, but it’s normal procedure to turn the lights off for landing. In case they need to evacuate the plane, everybody’s eyes will be used to the darkness. 🙂
Another thing that some people insist on doing but is really rude : grabbing the headrest of the seat in front of them to hoick themselves out of their seat ! This is a NO under any circumstances. How would you feel if you were just falling asleep and someone jerked your head back 20 centimeters ? The correct way to get out of your seat is to push down on the armrests. I'm 72, partially disabled and I can do it easily so there's no excuse.
Janet. I don't disagree with you. But I have a disability too but I am unable to push myself up from the armrest. It's easier for me to pull from a higher place. I've been guilty of doing this but I do try to be as gentle as possible and always apologize.
You might be able to do it easily but not everyone can. Don't judge. Not everyone who is disabled is as lucky as you. As a courtesy, you might inform the passenger in front of you that you will have to pull on the seat to get up.
The only time that I grab the seat in front of me is when that person has reclined their seat back and I have no choice but to use the seat in front of me of as something to grab while trying to stand up. If you sit in an ecomony seat there is no room for the passenger behind you to lower the tray table, eat or even watch an ipad due to the lack of space. I wish that all airlines would remove the ability to recline the seats.
Good tips. A little common courtesy is to smile at your seat mates as you take your seat.. You don’t even need to speak to them. A little acknowledgment goes a long ways ❤
#19 When the crew asks everyone to wait to exit the plane so people with connecting flights can leave first, *stay* *seated* or move out of the way unless you have a connecting flight to catch. This usually happens when the plane is late on arrival and the connecting flight is about to leave. I appreciate this and have run across the terminal myself, only to see some from my flight are heading to baggage claim - and they exited the same time I did. I've also been a passenger who waited, so those with connecting flights can try to make their flight.
I have one more rule. When the plane lands and people are getting off, don't take your time and chat with your friends while getting your bags out of the overhead. Get them out and move along. Also related...if you are not time constrained by a quick connection or this is your last leg and you are sitting in the window, allow other passengers trying to make a connection to get off ahead of you. You're just going to sit at baggage claim and wait anyway.
The same is true if you have a very long layover. My husband and I waited until almost everyone was off the plane before we got off the last time we flew. We had a 5 hour layover, so we certainly were not in a hurry.
I've never understood why if you are in the back of the plane you want to stand up and add to the chaos, unless you need to get off because you will miss your connection due to problems with the airlines.
Generally, I'm flying budget airline where you don't have to pay for allocated seat, but you can. Added rule, once the plane lande, wait until there is space in the isle before standing, if you want to get up immediately and wait standing, please book you or seat in the isle, if not, just wait until the person sitting in the seats in your way to leave. You are not getting out any quicker so be patient.
Most of the time I plan for a fairly long transit, so I just want till all the passengers get off, and stroll off the plane. That said, in a few weeks, I have a 75 minute transit, so I will be out the door as fast as possible😂.
Thank you for the great tips! One thing, though. Sometimes there's a reason that someone needs to get off quickly. I had that happen recently. Normally, when getting off the plane, I wait in line, as you should. On my last return flight, however, I had an emergency going on back at home and I had to catch the airport bus back into town. If I missed it, the next bus was quite a wait. With the benefit of hindsight, now I know that the best thing in this type of situation is to check with a flight attendant at the start of the flight and maybe they can help. Otherwise, people will almost always assume the worst of your intentions. I'm so thankful for the people who gave me the benefit of the doubt and helped me get off a little earlier than I otherwise would have. Then I ran like crazy to catch the bus! Blessings on those wonderful, kind people who helped.
When I was a flight attendant and our own flight had a delay, we would ask passengers to hold back from disembarking til those with tight connections could get off first. Usually passengers were quite good about it.
I usually stay in my seat to the plane is nearly empty so I don’t have to rush and able to triplecheck that I have everything. Find this also allows the time to say a sincere thank you to the crew whilst departing the plane.
I like the list. I would add 2. If boarding, and you are first to your row in aisle, don’t sit and buckle all up. There are others coming to occupy the remaining seats. Wish they could just board all the windows, then middles, then Aisles. 2nd, and this is controversial, but stop asking others to switch seats so you can sit with family. I book my flights and seats months ahead, usually window b/c I never leave my seat during flight. Just book adjacent seats for your companions, or book a different flight, or get over the separation for a few short hours. Don’t punish someone who planned ahead for your own convenience.
Totally agree with you on number 2. Do NOT ask me to switch seats with you...I don't care the reason. I, too, book my flights ahead of time and carefully choose my seat--usually paying more. I'm NOT switching with you, I don't care if you put me on TikTok. But then again, my flights are usually 4+ hours now, in which case I automatically fly first class (personal flights and thankfully I can do that).
These should be WRITTEN rules, I don’t mind switching seats with a large or tall person if they’re on the middle, but my arm rests should say they’re for the middle. Great content!!!
I once had a passenger in front of me drape her long hair over the screen on the back of her seat which is the seatback facing me...I asked her nicely to mover her hair...she acted like she didn't hear me...I asked the flight crew and they then asked her...she refused...I then told my wife..."Hon I am in the mood for a lot of bubble or chewing gum....I knew she had some...she said sure here you go how much do you want....I stated the whole damn pack....The lady then moved her hair and I was not bothered the rest of the flight..
@@caroleanne8529 After 9/11 they confiscated my knitting needles and scissors. I said look I'm not political but you are radicalising a potentially dangerous group in society: committed knitters. They were dead set serious and didn't find anything funny about it.
I've wished for an unwritten rule that asks passengers without close connections to please stay seated to let people with tight schedules disembark first.
I've been on quite a few transatlantics that have been late and an announcement was made to that effect (and benefitted myself a couple of times when it applied to me). Maybe it doesn't happen so much on domestic flights.
Generally, I avoid any connecting flight with less than a 45 minute layover, especially if the airport is big and I have to walk a lot or take a shuttle like Philly International.
Completely agree with these unspoken rules. Problem is most of them require someone to have respect and consideration for others. In 2023, that's basically not the norm. I always travel with a window seat but for my next transatlantic trip I booked an aisle seat so I can more freely get up, walk around, use the bathroom without disturbing someone to move. Also so come landing, I can be up and grab my things immediately. Previously this was not something that concerned me but I've learnt that immigration at JFK is shockingly poor and being one of the first 50 off the plane. Not needing to use the bathroom at the airport before immigration means the difference between a 30 min wait and a near 3 hour wait. As I learnt on my last trip. So to be considerate to others I booked a seat I didn't want to get a fair start and not disturb others.
@@frosty3693 Makes sense. My problem is I'm too polite. So I don't want to bother people and it ended up with me being stuck in immigration behind nearly a full 777-300 planes worth of people. With only 2 immigration officers working. Not doing that again!
I always loved the window seat and still do, because I love to look out of the window. One time I had to sit in the aisle seat and found it a little more spacious, not being between the cabin wall and someone else. It was also nice being able to stand right away once we pulled up to the gate. It has its advantages.
This is the worst. The space above is yours, not wherever you want it. I’ve been in a couple of flights where the overhead was all taken but the person had just arrived, the attendant asked whose bag and had them remove it.
I remove their bag from the bin and place it in a location that cabin attendants will now consider removing the bag from the cabin. The cabin attendants ask whose bag it is; there are no answers because the passenger who owns the bag is in the rear of the plane and cannot hear attendant's question. So, once the plane has completely been full and ALL the overhead space is also full (and closed), the cabin attendants make an announcement about the "missing" bag. I just love the rage of the offending passenger, way back in row 47 who has to come forward to row 12 to retrieve their bag. Every now and then, they are told the bag must now be placed underneath the cabin, in with the checked bags. Once, a passenger began screaming "Who touched my bag?" Another passenger asked: "Why is your bag above row 12 when you're in the back of the plane?" The enraged, offensive passenger then demanded to have her seat switched; but the cabin attendants shed crocodile tears for the offending passenger, who proved to be rude the entire flight (I was later told by the cabin attendants).
Technically, the slave over one's head is public, not seat specific, except within sections. That's ac unwritten rule of flying. Obviously someone in coach can't be putting their stuff in the overhead compartment outside of their seating class.
Great tips. As someone who traveled extensively across Canada for work and now retired travel for enjoyment, I get so annoyed at what is simple disrespectful and rude behavior by some. The last item I would add is if you are having a bad day don't take it out on the cabin crew. They are there first for your safety and second for your comfort. They are not your personal servants for the duration of the flight.
Packing for a trip/flight is a skill. I taught myself to only have a carry-on plus a small backpack for important necessities. I got so good at it, that, while others waited for their luggage, I just walked off the plane, and out of the airport. This skill is worth the trouble and time it takes to learn.😊
I fly for 3 week trips to Europe with a satchel and carry on backpack. I have enough clothing to go hiking if I want and into a nice restaurant without looking out of place. The satchel allows access to in flight stuff and gives me a day-bag for camera, light snacks, travel journal etc since I rarely rent cars while abroad, I hate waiting on checked luggage unless it’s necessary.
I have flown hundreds of times for work over the last 35 years. At first I would check a bag. Then I graduated to carry on only. It worked ok but compromises were needed to fit what I needed into my carry on. Eventually I found that checking a bag works best. But I have one proviso. I mostly fly within Australia and NZ. I was on a flight from Las Vegas to Chicago and looked quizzically at passengers wrestling huge suitcases into the overhead lockers. I thought them foolish. When we landed at Chicago O'Hare and my transport refused to take my request until I had collected my luggage and the wait was well over an hour for the luggage to come, I knew who the smart people were.
It used to be that I would check even small suitcase, when it was free. Now I drag into the cabin maximum allowed size carry on and maximum allowed size personal item. No surprise the bins inside are full.
Most of these items are what are commonly called "being considerate." Alas, in this day and age that has sort of just vanished. Thank you for the wonderful reminder to people.
I have a personal rule that I must always where a long-sleeved top on the flight, even if it's very hot outside. I don't want my bare skin touching strangers. This is just my personal thing but it seems to make sense to me. Thanks so much for your videos! I find them entertaining and informative.
Airplanes are very dirty. Covering skin/hair is a good idea. I wear food service gloves in the toilet because even the sink taps and door locks are germy.
I'm the same. Last long-haul? Sat next to a bare-armed man who wouldn't stop scratching his arms. Being a doctor from the UA-cam School of Medicine, I rapidly diagnosed his having a case of scabies.
I agree with all these except the window shade one. I pick the window seat mainly because I must have a whale sized bladder and rarely get up to go to the bathroom. And I like endlessly looking out the window. I will close it if there is direct sunlight streaming through and bothering passengers near me but otherwise it's open.
I don't have a whale size bladder, but I have found I can usually not use the bathroom if I go at the airport right before it is time to start boarding.
Same. I actually get a touch of claustrophobia if I can’t open the shade, at least a little, or if I’m in one of those weird rows that just doesn’t have a window.
Ditto!! I hate it when the windows are closed. I don’t like the feeling of being in a “closed” space! I enjoy seeing the outside clouds and all and especially the landing
I had a belief a daughter who was assisting her disabled Dad tell me that in order for him to get up he would need to pull on the back of my seat! Of course, I thanked her, and said it was fine as I had seen him get on! But even if his disability wasn’t obvious I thought it was extremely gracious to be warned. I can’t remember if she asked me to put my seat up as those flights rarely have seats that really recline anyway. My guess she didn’t but I put the back up anyway.
Hi Megan - the only caveat I have to the last rule is all flight attendants should allow passengers who are going to be hauling to another gate or terminal to get to a connecting flight off the plane first especially if the airline was late. If someone next to me is worried about missing their flight, I tell them to talk to the flight attendant to allow them off first as I know they will be running to the next gate. I would add to your list, (1) no punching on pushing the chair in front of you when you are selecting the various entertainment options, (2) don’t let your kid run wild on the plane and bother everyone around them, and (3) for those walking down the aisle, don’t hang and pull down on the seat back as you walk. If you have problems walking then take a cane. I hate when I am jostled awake by someone pulling on my seat.
I agree with you but just want to add that I use a cane and it is always stored in the overhead bins. I have never been allowed to keep it under my seat. I always try to book a seat close to the front/washrooms but it is not fun trying to hobble up there. I have my wheelchair brought up after landing but have to wait and get off last otherwise I would try to wait and go when I arrive at the destination airport. I have waited an extra 45 minutes AFTER everyone has left on Air Canada for my chair. The poor crew were having to wait also.
@@lillianliber1798 I bought a folding cane so I could shove it in the thermos pocket on the side of my backpack that I use as a personal item when flying.
@@Hoodat_Whatzit Do you find it sturdy enough?I will have to check them out as it would be more convenient to be able to fold when in my wheelchair or mobility scooter. It always gets in the way! I use a Hugo with a quad tip as my balance is not great.
1) The middle seat is trash. Near literal torture on a long-haul flight. 2) On my most recent flight from Madrid to Chicago, I was seated in the emergency row/bulkhead aisle (in seats A & B in your diagram). I watched for 9 hours as people constantly cut across the middle bulkhead row, forcing people to lift their legs or move themselves so that these other passengers could move between the bathrooms on either side. I really felt sorry for those people seated there. 3) Also a new phenomenon that happened on BOTH flights to and from Europe -- jackasses playing their music and videos through phones and laptops WITHOUT USING HEADPHONES. I felt like I was going insane. Are people really that clueless these days about being in a shared public space?
on #2 I never retract my legs so others can get through. Once I was politely asked to move my legs so they can get by and I politely declined. Why should I be inconvenienced so others walk around. It isn’t a playground. It is an airplane. I understand the need to stand on long flights and stretch to get your circulation going and avoid cramping or worse yet, blood clots, but that doesn’t mean you do laps. What if all 350 passengers did that?
@@samanthashorey7323 yes. I honestly couldn’t believe it. I hate to be a crusty old man, but people Today just don’t seem to know how to act in public any more.
I had the same experience last year. The man sitting right behind me had been listening to some podcasts without headphones the entire flight. Fortunately, the flight lasted only 2.5 hours. To make matters worse, the woman sitting next to me started to polish her nails. You can imagine the smell.
GREAT list!!!! As a tip for aisle seat passengers that have to move for their seatmates: most aisle armrests have a small button underneath, toward the seat, that allows it to move up. Also works nicely if your own tray is down and you want to just slide out of the seat.
Great video! Thank you for that. Allow me to add one more: walking down the aisle with baggage hanging on your shoulders. Often it looks like a scene from a comedy movie - the person walking with stuff hanging from one or both shoulders and leaving behind a trail of angry expressions on faces that have just been hit. And sometimes, for added pleasure, the shoulder baggage terrorist will make a 90 degrees turn to say something to the friend walking behind them...
Middle seat - yes 100% gets both arm rests. Had a guy in the aisle that he paid for two armrests. The middle seat guy and I were like "really?", the attendant overheard this and was very professional. "Sir, no one pays for two armrests. Customarily the middle seat gets use of both."
Additionally, I think you should submit this to the airlines and have the airlines play this after the safety briefing on the little TV screens. Seriously. I think this would be perfect.!!!!!!
Middle seat 😊 too many times to count. Great video on an important subject not usually taught, nor known by all. Never did i expect to hear the phrase "crop dusting" in one of your videos 😂😊 Made me lol! So true!
Ok the only one I have a problem with is #12 the window. I like the window and pay for a window because I like to look out the window. Now I have not flown internationally since I was a kid so if your just over empty ocean then I get it. But domestically I like to look out and see the terrain etc and all the lights of the cities if it’s at night. My feeling is if I paid for a window then I can use the window as I see fit. Of course I am courteous to others if the sun is blaring in or the clouds are super bright etc… like in a turn or whatever but if I want to look out then I’m going to look out regardless of how others have their shades up or down. Also if I have a window and the person behind or in front of me does not then that person does not get to control my shade as I have seen on some other videos.
I agree that the passenger who is in the window seat has control over the window shade. Naturally, that passenger should try to be aware when it might be courteous to close or partially close the shade. What other passengers are doing with their window shades is irrelevant. And this opinion comes from someone who likes the aisle seat.
The window shade thing drives me nuts. I’m a little claustrophobic, and having all the shades forced down for 10 hours is awful. Passengers can wear eye masks if they need sleep. I dread my upcoming 14 hour flight because of this.
@@pruemiller8164 that’s exactly why they have those eye masks. If people want it dark they have the option to wear one they should not be dictating how people who paid for a window seat control their window shade.
This is an excellent summary … thank you! I just wonder why these are not communicated by the airlines? For example, everyone at least being aware of the middle seat arm rest rule would makes things a lot easier.
Great list and reminders. My main complaint flying lately is the abuse of “carryon” luggage-saw several people with lg rollerboard bags along with large backpacks and large shopping bags as well-tried to put all up in the overhead! And how it delays boarding and leaves no room for other people anywhere near their seat! Think airlines might do better to charge you to carryon but let you check for free!
In the 80's I flew to USA - 1 onboard bag per person & a personal item. Well we get onboard & hear a commotion over a group of very old Americans about their bags. Video cameras were VHS Size so were a mini suit case & then we had an onboard, bag, sun hat & the like. I was forced to load my bag 10 rows away due to these greedy passengers. Well technology changed so those oversized cameras were soon gone. I travelled for work alot domestically so never annoyed anyone in Business Class.
On a recent flight with Lynx Air, the gate attendants pulled ppl out of the line to force them to pay, I laughed out loud. You can't say you missed it when booking, it's a big fat "yes or no" in order to continue with your booking. Cheapskates.
@@zigarten I travelled often domestically for business & used 1 bag only. I used all hotel toiletries & went bare bones on clothes as I was there for work only. I wore my suit onboard & was told off a few times for overweight bag - I was always 1kg under. A few times I stayed at the same hotel so left my bag as I flew home for a meeting. I brought up more clothes & ended up just taking my suit pack & work bag home. I do know a few times hand luggage has been weighed & on your discount airfares they get even more $$$$ from you. Hence why I eat in my lounges before flying as I refuse to pay for a crap meal.
Also add that if you're not in the window seat, you don't control the shade. One time, I got a window seat to sleep on the plane and had put the shade down. Just as I was falling asleep, it was bright again.... The lady next to me must've reached over me and opened it!!!! When I woke up, she was stretching to look out the window. This was after she was last to board with her heavy jacket on (which of course she had to take off) and her smelly meal. I looked at her with a stern face and closed the shade again.
Beautifully articulated! I agree with all of this. As other people have commented, it would be SO nice if airlines would play your video on the video screens on planes prior to takeoff. Thanks for another great video.
I agree with these unspoken rules, however I would like to remind the person in the middle seat that although both armrests are theirs that does not allow them to have their arms/elbows extend past the armrest. Recently I had the middle seat persons elbow in my side and he did not speak english and slept the entire flight.
When I had that experience, I was able to shove my elbow onto the armrest and move their elbow out of my ribs thankfully! I tried again to let them have the armrest only to have to repeat my own elbow maneuver. Needless to say, I kept my elbows on the armrest the rest of the flight to spare my ribs from bruising!
Great video, thanks! Middle seats never bothers me..I prefer it than aisle probably b/c I always get bumped on the aisle seat. Never really understood why people would go barefoot on a plane, I mean, the plane is not their house. I see it all the time and just reminds me of trash.
I always get the aisle seat because l don’t mind how many times I’m woken up or asked to allow the seat mates to go in or out. On long flights I up and down often.
I always appreciated the flight attendants telling the passenger to bring his seat back up during meal time. So that I could eat my food without hitting my head on the seat back in front of me. Unfortunately many people have no consideration for others any more. My most recent unpleasant experience was a young man sitting in the middle seat next to me spread out his legs so one of his legs was in my space.
Middle seat and you're correct is everything you talk about this is actually a breath or fresh air . You hear from others that don't do their research, it's great to hear you have .
Hi I was just on a flight where the man next to me sat in the seat like he had a basketball between his legs taking up a good 8 inch’s of my space I was forced to fly sitting sideways for 3 hours.. so on your plane etiquette list should be respectful of personal space
I would have asked him to please stop, or at the very least, gone to the "restroom" and asked the flight attendant to casually mention it as she/he walked down the aisle "checking" on passengers.
Great video. I agree with most but I disagree on the window shades. If its night and the cabin lights are off it dark anyway. I love to look at the twinkly lights on the ground. If its daytime its so beautiful out the window. We were once on a flight from Rome back to the US, it was the middle of the day and the flight attendants told us to pull down our shade. Very few people were asleep. Why would you want to sit in a claustrophobic dark cabin in the middle of the day? Plus we were flying east to west so it was a short day anyway. If you want to sleep bring a sleep mask.
shades down helps them control the temp inside the plane..the people in your row may not want the sun glaring in their eyes or on their screens they watching
Wonderful advice, or should I say "reminders", of many things that are pure common sense and simple etiquette. Many seem to be greatly lacking in these skills. I hope this video helps to educate and emphasize to some passengers that they are NOT the only individual on the plane.
I'm 6'5" and I prefer Spirit Airlines because I know the person in front of me can't recline their seat into my knees which are already cramped. You can't recline on Spirit and I love that!
Thanks for another great video! May I add #19: Please don’t purchase smelly foods from the airport to eat on the plane. The fish or egg salad sandwich will offend, not just the people beside you, but the entire cabin!
Good presentation. I wish that persons willing to check their bags would be allowed off the plane first. It might encourage more checked bags & make more room in the overhead for carryons.
Totally agree with everything you said. However, I would like to add that being a kind and respectful passenger already starts when booking the flight. If you're someone who has a weak bladder, needs to use the bathroom a lot or who likes to walk around frequently to move their muscles, please do everyone a favour and book yourself an isle seat. Same goes for those persons who rarely ever need to get up and who maybe even tend to sleep the entire flight. Please book a window seat in that case. There are lots of people who are anxious to wake up a stranger and will therefore be uncomfortable for the entire flight. Both of those cases can be really annoying especially for long international flights.
Aside from cramped seating, my pet peeve is international flights that force everyone to put the shades down right after the meal service, even if it's daytime. There's one U.S.-based airline I used to fly to Asia often, and even thought the flights left the U.S. around 1:00pm, the flight attendants would have everyone put down their shades right after the meal service and keep them down till just before landing. But who goes to bed at 3:00pm (or 5:00am at our destination?) I much preferred it in the days when we could choose whether to have our shades up or down. There isn't a lot to see over the Pacific, but once I took a Chicago to Osaka flight and was treated to Alaska and the absolutely empty Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia followed by the populous islands of Japan, In those cases, I just pretended I was enjoying an unusually long afternoon, and maybe I dozed off for an hour or two, as I sometimes do in the afternoon, but when we arrived in Asia, it was usually between 4:00 and 6:00pm, and I was not sleepy. I stayed awake till 10pm local time, slept 8 hours, and was showered and dressed, ready for the hotel breakfast at 7:00pm. I suspect the eight hours of darkness on trans-Pacific flights are DESIGNED to make the passengers groggy so that they won't make too many demands.
Good list and I agree that it should be required watching before all flights. I do disagree with #1 (Only large bags in overhead compartment). On short trips I often travel with just a computer bag and a small backpack. I have no option except to put the backpack in the overhead. While fight attendants have never stopped me, I have gotten glared at by other passengers.
I agree. It is a thing with selfish travelers that they are not going to pay to check their bag. So many of them take up the overhead space even where they are not sitting. It didn't used to be like this before the airlines decided to have us pay for checked bags.
I disagree with number 1 as well, I choose to travel really light and don’t like to have a bag under the seat in front which takes up valuable foot room - if all I bring on board is a small backpack then I should be allowed to put it up in the bag storage.
That’s what the space under the seat in front of you is for. It’s amazing what I can fit under there! And a place to put my feet as I’m in the short side and trying to keep my feet planted in the floor or keeping my legs crossed is very uncomfortable.
Thankfully Australia has size and weight restrictions for carry on luggage and they enforce them when checking in and boarding (they will actually walk through the queue with a scale and force ppl to either check their luggage, or pay overweight carry on fees). Makes the experience so much nicer than having to scramble to get space!!
I make seat choices as early as possible because of mobility issues. Once a man asked me to move to middle seat for his comfort. No guilt, and I said no. Even had to repeat. No is no.
Thank you for this!!! These are all my pet peeves and it is so nice to hear these courtesies spelled out. The only caveat I have is about the overhead bin. Each seat should have enough space for one standard size roll-on piece of luggage. I feel that is it okay to take up that much space with your item, but no more. Also, can we please address "man-spreading"? Please keep your knees within the parallel lines of your seat! Thank you for listening to my TED talk.
When airlines start actually giving enough legroom for normal males (who, sorry sweetie, are more often than not physically taller than women), you can start bitching about ‘manspreading’ Until then, remember it’s often not from choice.
The exception to that last one about getting off the plane in order, if you have a close connection to another flight, especially due to delays, talk to the flight attendants before approach and landing at let them know your situation. They will often assist you in getting off the plane quickly so you can get to your connecting flight, as well as may be able to give you airport information about what gate you are arriving at and possibly what gate you might be departing from.
I've been flying several times a year as our kid moved to a far-away state and my #1 peeve is that people are constantly failing at the carry-on rules. It's always a full flight and despite being told a million times about the 2-item carry-on rule, they schlep in with three or four items and then carelessly slop them into the overhead bins. And so many people still don't understand that they should put their suitcase on its side standing on end, which enables the bin to hold another suitcase.
I'm retired now, but I used to fly International from Sydney Australia ...14 hours to LAX, plus before moving "Down Under" as a teacher, I spent 9 years US Army and DOD, which required me to take shorter flights 1-5 hours all through the 70's... One thing was the people in the early 70's were pretty much dressed up, like it was an event...starting in the 90's I saw people walking into the bathroom wearing only socks??? ... finally, since 90% of my flights I was alone ... I had people ask AFTER we were in the air to exchange seats so there partner or kid could sit next to them... Not once did I say no... it's just a seat and do I really enjoy looking out a window for 14 hours... not really. Be civil, treat fellow passengers and staff as you'd like to be treated... pretty simple really.
Nowadays the person may have paid extra to have a seat he is sitting in. It is becoming somewhat rude to ask them to exchange a seat. One should take complaint to the airlines, some of which are now happy to assign disjoint seats for people flying together, even kids, even on the same reservation
@@dmitripogosian5084 My last flight was on Hawaiian Airlines.... a steward asked me if I mind changing seats so this newly wed wife could be next her new husband.... sure no problem, oh, young love... I hadn't paid extra as in economy only the seats by the exit emergency doors have extra leg room and since I'm disabled from combat I can't sit there anyway... so I agree, if you paid extra for one of those 7 seats, then yes sit tight. Me, I'm always on a isle seat (easy to get to the bathroom).... but I'd give it up....plus I was a paratrooper, I have made jumps and spent untold hours in a helicopter...not an experience to enjoy... my Father was a pilot, plus he had a little "piper cub" after he retired.... flying for me was mostly work and the odd flight with my Pop on a weekend... was fun as he used to let me fly it...
I once sat in an aisle seat next to someone in the cattle class who has a bladder problem on a 13-hr long haul flight. He literally went to the toilet 4 times every hour, so it was very annoying indeed. Also someone had pebbledashed the toilet (not just seat but the floor as well as the basin, tap and mirror) from what I heard none of the staff onboard the plane would want to clean it up, so they put an out-of-service sign on the door instead. I thought that was really gross, people should be a bit more considerate of others.
Lots of people are slobs, especially outside their own home. There's a reason gas station bathrooms have the reputation they do. On a plane you're traveling with those same people. And it takes just one to destroy the restroom for everyone.
Rule #12 is BS. I pay for a window seat because I want to see outside. This is particularly so if flying over scenic places like Greenland or over unusual weather conditions. I do understand that the best way to avoid jetlag is to sleep when it is dark outside the plane, and stay awake if it is daylight, but there are times as described where staying awake to enjoy the views takes precedence.
I always try to sit right behind the wing because I like watching the wing flex, and when we're landing, watch the ailerons and flaps deploy. So I don't lower the window screen.
You have to be careful in wing seats, as they are often emergency exits & need to be kept clear. I've had flight crew tell me I have to stash EVERYTHING in the overhead storage when in a wing seat. As such, wing seat travellers get dibs on overhead storage, to keep the emergency exits clear
I have really enjoyed binge watching travel videos. Your work is very professional & informative. I don't travel often. The TSA (Travel Suppression Agency) has made flying so disagreeable that the "hassle factor" is nearly insurmountable. After watching countless gear videos, travel hacks, destination tips, packing advice, I am cross eyed! I have realized that traveling with the "Missus" means I will be going to baggage claim for her steamer trunk, so I might as well check my antique carry-on, right?
Hello Megan ! Love watching and hearing from you ! I agree with all your unwritten rules as they are common sense however I disagree with the window shade. I always enjoy a window seat for the joy of looking at cloud formations or other aircraft or if I can see oceans, and cities etc. I do agree at night to pull the shade down but at early light I love the shade up regardless if all shades are down.. Catch you next time !
I appreciate when the captain will make an announcement encouraging all passengers sitting in the window seats to lower their shades and be considerate of other passengers, especially during overnight flights. Some passengers heed that request and other passengers ignore that request. (I, for one, appreciate those that appreciate that request 😁)
Me too. The doctor told me some asthmatics cough instead of wheezing. Having coughing asthma was very traumatizing during the C pandemic because everyone assumed I was contagious!
I have severe allergies... perfumes AND lotions can trigger my coughing, asthma, itchy, and watery eyes. It is miserable! After having anaphylaxis, I always have anxiety about it (have Epi-pen).
These are all good suggestions. One thing I like to do when boarding a plane and walking down the aisle to find a seat...if I have a carry-on and purse....I always carry one in each hand, one in front of me and one in back of me. That way I won't bump them into the passengers already seated. It's interesting....the seats seem to get closer and closer to each other, front to back, every few years. So, passengers, be thoughtful when you raise and/or lower your seatback and/or trays. Not everyone can afford luxury seats.
If I may add- flight attendants begin being on the clock when the plane doors are closed so they can't lift your carryon into compartments as they are not on the clock yet. If they were to get hurt, they are not covered by workers comp.
That situation needs to change. They are working as soon as they enter the aircraft, if not before. How the airlines have been allowed to get away with this for so long boggles the mind.
@@catmom9755 I disagree. I think passengers should lift their own damn luggage themselves. With the exception of, pregnant women, elderly people or individuals with physical disabilities. And passengers should be more mindful in their future travels to, lighten luggage.
@@redfoe77 my point wasn't that flight attendants should be lifting bags, it's that they should be PAID at least as soon as they enter the aircraft, not when the doors close.
@@catmom9755 I've heard several times that the cabin crew doesn't get paid until the plane takes off. So if the plane is sitting on the tarmac for an hour, no reimbursement!
Totally disagree with #1. I need the foot space in front of me (I’m 6’ 2”) and if I’ve paid for the locker space in the price of my ticket, so if I want to put my personal item up there I will. In a considerate, space-aware type way of course.
And then when others come in for their seat there isn’t any space for their item - especially if you decide to,place your item forward before you even get to your seat. Want to know just how much fun it is to have to put an item way in the back when you are seated near the middle? Just check your damn bag!!!
If you are in bulk seating you have to put both your carryon and your personal item in the overhead because you can't have it at your feet when there is no seat there. The rule is for regular seats where passengers are to put their carryon in the overhead and their personal item under the seat in front of them.
@@sandybruce9092 I agree with Rowley (I'm also tall). The airlines need to police size and weight restrictions for carry on luggage - realistically it should be able to fit under the seat in front of you, and if it doesn't it should be checked. Rowley has correctly pointed out that they've paid for a comfy flight, so if you come along after he's already sorted himself out (regardless of where he's put it) and you need to find some space just ask a flight attendant to take care of it for you.
@@sandybruce9092 I've flown a lot and very very rarely was there no room in the overheads. It's no tragedy if your need to stow your stuff away from your seat.
The comments are absolutely hilarious and I agree with many of them. I am a window person and when I get to my seat and see that the airplane configuration is off and there is no window aligned with my seat, I cannot stand that! It's like having the window shade down for the entire flight. Also, I absolutely have to wear long sleeves and long pants whether it's hot or cold! 🤣✈
I wrote a short story about an unruly passenger on a flight. The flight attendant asked nicely twice then threw them out of the aircraft. Peace and harmony prevailed for the rest of the flight. It might be fun to spread a rumor that all flight attendants have a voucher for one ejection per year, and they wear a badge saying "Ask me about my unused voucher."
My pet peeve is people who bring more than the two allowed items and airlines that let that happen. Then people who follow the rules are forced to have their carry on, with their valuables, checked. It never seems to happen to the offenders!
I can go back to the 80's when VHS Video Cameras were the size of a bag. 2 bags brought on & too much crap indeed. I learned to check everything I could & take a wheel aboard bag for fragile or essential items
@@matthewbrown6163 Speaking of cameras, as a photographer, I often travel with my gear. It's in a carry-on sized case but under anything but the most dire of circumstances will I ever check it. That's just asking for it to get lost (stolen) or damaged because the baggage handlers forgot to throw it underhanded. On the other hand, I don't carry the camera AND a carryon suitcase. That's too much, and it is also a real PITA to have to lug around an airport.
@@charlesboyer61 I was a videographer & I used to take the smaller cameras onboard with me. On 1 shoot I drove the 10 hours interstate as I was worried of the possible damage to all my gear. As you know YOUR lens are very delicate & the slightest bump will damage them. Pelican cases are brilliant but NOT perfect.
My husband will stand in the isle to stop the people in the back from rushing to the front he’s two foot across six foot tall you’re not going to get past him lol
Wow! Great advice! You’re either a flight attendant, or you spoke directly to one for this info. 😜 One thing to add, do NOT drink alcohol you brought onboard with you, as it is a federal offense and the airline is required to report you to the FAA for non compliance. Happy and safe travels! ✈️
Concerning "personal item": Many suitcases or notebook bags are way too big for placing them under seat, at least if you have feet that can't be rolled up 🙂 I always place my backpack overhead because I have a knee injury and it hurts to sit without being able to stretch the knee at least a bit over 90°. Airlines should rather enforce the maximum hand luggage size, then their would be enough space in the overhead compartments. It's insane what kinds of suitcases people bring to the cabin without being stopped.
Hi Megan Not long ago on short 5 hr flight i asked the flight attenant if i could switch to a bulk head seat, she said yes and i did after the seatbelt sign came off. This was great as all three seats where vacant, then i noticed people going to the toilet and crossing over even the crew? I was then asked to go back to my original seat because i was holding people up...go figure huh
These are actually well-considered rules to have on your mind when travelling, or even in some circumstances in every day life; good neighbour, good traveller :).
About carry-on luggage..... Sometimes I am carrying valuables that I would like to keep near me. Things that can't be replaced if they were lost or stolen or damaged in a checked bag.
As a young man in 1979 my father and I travelled on an airplane and he taught me many of these rules about middle seat and other airplane courtesies. Served me well ever since.
As a long legged person, I refrain from bringing a carry on to be able to store my backpack in the overhead compartment. I feel that allows me to use the precious space under the seat on front of me for my feet. Otherwise, I'll begin to bring my personal belongings inside a carry on.
on my last flight, I was sitting in row 11 (first row of economy class - more space for the legs). Storing my hand luggage (backpack) "under the seat in front of me" was not an option, because there was no seat in front of me. Therefore I had to put the backpack into the overhead bin (as I had not occupied an overhead bin space quickly - and had boarded after most other passengers anyway - the next free spot in the overhead bins was above row 19, I.e. eight rows behind me)
Very comprehensive! Thanks for including #17. My adult daughter was on a 4+ hour flight in March, coming home for spring break, next to someone who was coughing deeply and was so weak that she needed a full minute just to stand up to go to the restroom, and yet this person only wore a mask for the first 10 minutes of the flight. My daughter had the fear of getting sick hanging over her throughout her spring break. She had to decline the snack/drink service to keep her own mask on the whole flight to compensate for the person who wouldn't wear a mask for others. Then, a little over a week ago, I was on an hour and a half flight next to someone who I thought was just declining the snack/drink service so that she could continue napping with her head on her boyfriend's shoulder, until we landed and she responded "Terrible" when he asked how she was feeling. He reassured her that the gate for the next leg of their trip was next door to where they would be exiting - that's how weak she apparently was. And yet she was unmasked the whole time. I spent my mini-vacation wondering if I was about to get very sick! Lack of common sense and consideration in our society is stressful to say the least.
My son and daughter-in-law were on a flight from NY to Sacramento and the woman in front of them was coughing. We were supposed to be on a cruise together a couple weeks later. Even though they wore masks, the coughing woman did not. They also missed the cruise with us because they got covid.
Meh, that's the only one that I didn't agree with. I have allergies. I also cough when the air is dry (like on a plane). I'm not about to wear a mask because my dry throat or allergy coughing upsets someone else.
Last year I had some allergies getting on the plane but I really didn't feel bad until right when I was getting on. Then I had the worst coughing spell of my life during takeoff and couldn't reach my bag with the cough drops or my water. I was eventually able to get a mask out though since everyone probably already hated my guess
FYI, per the CDC and recent statements by the infamous Dr. Fauci, masks are only 10% effective, and exposure to viruses builds immunity. If you’re worried about getting sick, stay home, the rest of us would like to get on with living, and breathing oxygen, vice our own CO2.
Sitting in your assigned seat during take off is also essential to ensure the aircraft is balanced as pilots use the centre of gravity calculations derived from partly from passenger seating positions to apply the required elevator trim ensuring you have a smooth and safe take off.
Won't make any difference on even a small airliner. Trim is applied as needed, not based on some calculation. They might need to know if you put on 8000lbs between checkin and boarding though
Not only that. It is the LAW, NOT FAD, that you must be in your allocated seat for takeoff and landing. Not just for trim, but if there is a crash the seat numbers identify the corpses your relatives might get the wrong body!
@@boblim3415not quite true. There are calculations made to ensure best handling, especially in emergencies. Pilots all do these calculations before takeoff.
if you can't get your own bag in the overhead compartment yourself, check it. It shouldn't be the flight attendant's or any other passengers responsibility.
Agree. I am very annoyed by the ridiculous amount of luggage that people carry on a flight. I typically travel with a small bag with my notebook and a purse that go under my seat. Everything else gets checked. If someone can afford to fly, they can afford to check their luggage - or do it for free at the gate when the gate attendant asks for people to check their bags because the flight is so full. Boarding and de-boarding would go so much quicker if people weren't trying to get oversized items (plus other bags) out of the bins.
I actually have to fly soon and am recovering from surgery and not allowed to lift more than 5lbs. I will ask a fellow passenger to help me put my rolling laptop case in the overhead. I didn't think about the flight attendant's insurance situation. Also, keep in mind that some people are older and disabled and need to have a bag onboard with them... so don't assume everything should be checked. My mother can't lift her bag up to the overhead because she is disabled... but then she doesn't carry on the largest carryon size bag... she checks those.
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As an additional point....Once you`re off the plane and waiting to collect your luggage from the carousel, stand well back from the carousel. I PROMISE you will be able to see your bags coming well before they reach you. Then, walk forwards, collect your bag, & leave. This stops the idiotic practice of crowds leaning over each other, fighting for the front spot, trying to spot their bag stopping everyone else spotting their bag.
I always go to the last part of the luggage belts as the rush to get the bags & stand there like a moron whilst others want their bags too. I hate the family meetings around the luggage belts with 40 people waiting for 2 bags blocking access.
Indeed. If you then Hit them with your luggage all hell breaks loose....
@@Svenne23 On an International Flight to USA once - it was a fight to get on as they boarded in First - Business & people needing help. Then we had people with kids & then the cattle class. I watched these people rumble on & rumble off only to stand around the luggage carousel to get their bags first.
This should be played at all airports and before flights
Yes, but most people wouldn’t pay attention, and act like the rules do not apply to them.
Agreed. Lots of Karens and Kens on planes, too.
Why ? Because it is not the rules, just advise !
@Sam Joe ok karen 🤣🤣
It should just be common sense and common courtesy.
The best thing I ever saw flight attendants do was on a flight from Philadelphia to Las Vegas. It was our last flight coming home from Europe and we were very tired. The plane was full of rowdies, all getting ready to party and win in LV. As soon as the captain said everyone should fasten seat belts as we were descending for landing, most people got out of their seats to get their luggage out of overhead bins so they could rush off the plane. The flight attendants, rather than arguing with people, just shut off all the lights. It was total darkness, like being in a black tube. We knew this wasn't his first rodeo. 🤣
Oh wow, haven't seen that happen up north yet but I can see it starting!!
Yeah, but it’s normal procedure to turn the lights off for landing. In case they need to evacuate the plane, everybody’s eyes will be used to the darkness. 🙂
That is hilarious. Smart!!!
😂
I'm waiting for someone with a maniacal laugh to fill the airplane..in the dark.😂😂😂😂
Another thing that some people insist on doing but is really rude : grabbing the headrest of the seat in front of them to hoick themselves out of their seat ! This is a NO under any circumstances. How would you feel if you were just falling asleep and someone jerked your head back 20 centimeters ? The correct way to get out of your seat is to push down on the armrests. I'm 72, partially disabled and I can do it easily so there's no excuse.
Janet. I don't disagree with you. But I have a disability too but I am unable to push myself up from the armrest. It's easier for me to pull from a higher place. I've been guilty of doing this but I do try to be as gentle as possible and always apologize.
I was on a small plane and realized I couldn't stand up without holding on to the seat in front of me. I immediately apologized to the seats occupant.
You might be able to do it easily but not everyone can. Don't judge. Not everyone who is disabled is as lucky as you. As a courtesy, you might inform the passenger in front of you that you will have to pull on the seat to get up.
I hate that and have had my hair pulled as someone did that... it hurts. (Curly pulled up)
The only time that I grab the seat in front of me is when that person has reclined their seat back and I have no choice but to use the seat in front of me of as something to grab while trying to stand up. If you sit in an ecomony seat there is no room for the passenger behind you to lower the tray table, eat or even watch an ipad due to the lack of space. I wish that all airlines would remove the ability to recline the seats.
I’m a retired flight attendant and I wish every human could read these tips. Great information Thanks!
You are so welcome!
Good tips. A little common courtesy is to smile at your seat mates as you take your seat.. You don’t even need to speak to them. A little acknowledgment goes a long ways ❤
#19 When the crew asks everyone to wait to exit the plane so people with connecting flights can leave first, *stay* *seated* or move out of the way unless you have a connecting flight to catch.
This usually happens when the plane is late on arrival and the connecting flight is about to leave. I appreciate this and have run across the terminal myself, only to see some from my flight are heading to baggage claim - and they exited the same time I did. I've also been a passenger who waited, so those with connecting flights can try to make their flight.
I have one more rule. When the plane lands and people are getting off, don't take your time and chat with your friends while getting your bags out of the overhead. Get them out and move along. Also related...if you are not time constrained by a quick connection or this is your last leg and you are sitting in the window, allow other passengers trying to make a connection to get off ahead of you. You're just going to sit at baggage claim and wait anyway.
The same is true if you have a very long layover. My husband and I waited until almost everyone was off the plane before we got off the last time we flew. We had a 5 hour layover, so we certainly were not in a hurry.
I've never understood why if you are in the back of the plane you want to stand up and add to the chaos, unless you need to get off because you will miss your connection due to problems with the airlines.
Of course! I always do this!
Generally, I'm flying budget airline where you don't have to pay for allocated seat, but you can. Added rule, once the plane lande, wait until there is space in the isle before standing, if you want to get up immediately and wait standing, please book you or seat in the isle, if not, just wait until the person sitting in the seats in your way to leave. You are not getting out any quicker so be patient.
Most of the time I plan for a fairly long transit, so I just want till all the passengers get off, and stroll off the plane.
That said, in a few weeks, I have a 75 minute transit, so I will be out the door as fast as possible😂.
Thank you for the great tips! One thing, though. Sometimes there's a reason that someone needs to get off quickly. I had that happen recently. Normally, when getting off the plane, I wait in line, as you should. On my last return flight, however, I had an emergency going on back at home and I had to catch the airport bus back into town. If I missed it, the next bus was quite a wait. With the benefit of hindsight, now I know that the best thing in this type of situation is to check with a flight attendant at the start of the flight and maybe they can help. Otherwise, people will almost always assume the worst of your intentions. I'm so thankful for the people who gave me the benefit of the doubt and helped me get off a little earlier than I otherwise would have. Then I ran like crazy to catch the bus! Blessings on those wonderful, kind people who helped.
When I was a flight attendant and our own flight had a delay, we would ask passengers to hold back from disembarking til those with tight connections could get off first. Usually passengers were quite good about it.
I usually stay in my seat to the plane is nearly empty so I don’t have to rush and able to triplecheck that I have everything. Find this also allows the time to say a sincere thank you to the crew whilst departing the plane.
I like the list. I would add 2. If boarding, and you are first to your row in aisle, don’t sit and buckle all up. There are others coming to occupy the remaining seats. Wish they could just board all the windows, then middles, then Aisles. 2nd, and this is controversial, but stop asking others to switch seats so you can sit with family. I book my flights and seats months ahead, usually window b/c I never leave my seat during flight. Just book adjacent seats for your companions, or book a different flight, or get over the separation for a few short hours. Don’t punish someone who planned ahead for your own convenience.
Totally agree with you on number 2. Do NOT ask me to switch seats with you...I don't care the reason. I, too, book my flights ahead of time and carefully choose my seat--usually paying more. I'm NOT switching with you, I don't care if you put me on TikTok. But then again, my flights are usually 4+ hours now, in which case I automatically fly first class (personal flights and thankfully I can do that).
These should be WRITTEN rules, I don’t mind switching seats with a large or tall person if they’re on the middle, but my arm rests should say they’re for the middle. Great content!!!
I once had a passenger in front of me drape her long hair over the screen on the back of her seat which is the seatback facing me...I asked her nicely to mover her hair...she acted like she didn't hear me...I asked the flight crew and they then asked her...she refused...I then told my wife..."Hon I am in the mood for a lot of bubble or chewing gum....I knew she had some...she said sure here you go how much do you want....I stated the whole damn pack....The lady then moved her hair and I was not bothered the rest of the flight..
Good for you 👍
I knit, so I often have scissors - yes you can fly with scissors less than 4" long. So much for the hair.
@@caroleanne8529 After 9/11 they confiscated my knitting needles and scissors. I said look I'm not political but you are radicalising a potentially dangerous group in society: committed knitters. They were dead set serious and didn't find anything funny about it.
This happened to me too. I wish I had thought of the gum 😂
@@Hundredacredaycare lolol
I've wished for an unwritten rule that asks passengers without close connections to please stay seated to let people with tight schedules disembark first.
Now that’s a great idea!
I've been on quite a few transatlantics that have been late and an announcement was made to that effect (and benefitted myself a couple of times when it applied to me). Maybe it doesn't happen so much on domestic flights.
Not going to work, everyone will magically have a tight schedule and try to exit first.
@@lordgrinz I suggest having them prove it with their tickets before take off.
Generally, I avoid any connecting flight with less than a 45 minute layover, especially if the airport is big and I have to walk a lot or take a shuttle like Philly International.
Completely agree with these unspoken rules. Problem is most of them require someone to have respect and consideration for others. In 2023, that's basically not the norm.
I always travel with a window seat but for my next transatlantic trip I booked an aisle seat so I can more freely get up, walk around, use the bathroom without disturbing someone to move. Also so come landing, I can be up and grab my things immediately. Previously this was not something that concerned me but I've learnt that immigration at JFK is shockingly poor and being one of the first 50 off the plane. Not needing to use the bathroom at the airport before immigration means the difference between a 30 min wait and a near 3 hour wait. As I learnt on my last trip.
So to be considerate to others I booked a seat I didn't want to get a fair start and not disturb others.
Being older with sometimes bladder issues I try to get an asile seat for that reason.
@@frosty3693 Makes sense. My problem is I'm too polite. So I don't want to bother people and it ended up with me being stuck in immigration behind nearly a full 777-300 planes worth of people. With only 2 immigration officers working. Not doing that again!
Thank you, fellow traveler,
I always loved the window seat and still do, because I love to look out of the window. One time I had to sit in the aisle seat and found it a little more spacious, not being between the cabin wall and someone else. It was also nice being able to stand right away once we pulled up to the gate. It has its advantages.
JFK immigration is a nightmare. I counted 52 immigration counters. Only 3 were staffed. Thousands waited for hours. A Saturday morning in March.
If you are sitting towards the back of the jet, do not put your luggage in the front of the jet overheads. Those are for the passengers who sit there.
This is the worst. The space above is yours, not wherever you want it. I’ve been in a couple of flights where the overhead was all taken but the person had just arrived, the attendant asked whose bag and had them remove it.
I remove their bag from the bin and place it in a location that cabin attendants will now consider removing the bag from the cabin. The cabin attendants ask whose bag it is; there are no answers because the passenger who owns the bag is in the rear of the plane and cannot hear attendant's question. So, once the plane has completely been full and ALL the overhead space is also full (and closed), the cabin attendants make an announcement about the "missing" bag. I just love the rage of the offending passenger, way back in row 47 who has to come forward to row 12 to retrieve their bag. Every now and then, they are told the bag must now be placed underneath the cabin, in with the checked bags. Once, a passenger began screaming "Who touched my bag?" Another passenger asked: "Why is your bag above row 12 when you're in the back of the plane?" The enraged, offensive passenger then demanded to have her seat switched; but the cabin attendants shed crocodile tears for the offending passenger, who proved to be rude the entire flight (I was later told by the cabin attendants).
Technically, the slave over one's head is public, not seat specific, except within sections. That's ac unwritten rule of flying. Obviously someone in coach can't be putting their stuff in the overhead compartment outside of their seating class.
Great tips. As someone who traveled extensively across Canada for work and now retired travel for enjoyment, I get so annoyed at what is simple disrespectful and rude behavior by some. The last item I would add is if you are having a bad day don't take it out on the cabin crew. They are there first for your safety and second for your comfort. They are not your personal servants for the duration of the flight.
😂
Packing for a trip/flight is a skill. I taught myself to only have a carry-on plus a small backpack for important necessities. I got so good at it, that, while others waited for their luggage, I just walked off the plane, and out of the airport. This skill is worth the trouble and time it takes to learn.😊
I fly for 3 week trips to Europe with a satchel and carry on backpack. I have enough clothing to go hiking if I want and into a nice restaurant without looking out of place. The satchel allows access to in flight stuff and gives me a day-bag for camera, light snacks, travel journal etc since I rarely rent cars while abroad,
I hate waiting on checked luggage unless it’s necessary.
I have flown hundreds of times for work over the last 35 years. At first I would check a bag. Then I graduated to carry on only. It worked ok but compromises were needed to fit what I needed into my carry on. Eventually I found that checking a bag works best. But I have one proviso. I mostly fly within Australia and NZ. I was on a flight from Las Vegas to Chicago and looked quizzically at passengers wrestling huge suitcases into the overhead lockers. I thought them foolish. When we landed at Chicago O'Hare and my transport refused to take my request until I had collected my luggage and the wait was well over an hour for the luggage to come, I knew who the smart people were.
It used to be that I would check even small suitcase, when it was free. Now I drag into the cabin maximum allowed size carry on and maximum allowed size personal item. No surprise the bins inside are full.
ya, this works well if you can get your cabin back under 7kg limit that is required in most parts of the world.
That is the best way to travel by air.😁
Most of these items are what are commonly called "being considerate." Alas, in this day and age that has sort of just vanished. Thank you for the wonderful reminder to people.
I didn’t know that about the middle seat getting both arm rests. Good to know.
I have a personal rule that I must always where a long-sleeved top on the flight, even if it's very hot outside. I don't want my bare skin touching strangers. This is just my personal thing but it seems to make sense to me. Thanks so much for your videos! I find them entertaining and informative.
Glad you enjoy the videos and I love that you shared. I never thought about it, but I agree about the bare skin! Safe travels, catch you soon.
Yes, and long pants, because I don't want my legs to touch where someone else's sweaty legs were.
Airplanes are very dirty. Covering skin/hair is a good idea. I wear food service gloves in the toilet because even the sink taps and door locks are germy.
I'm the same. Last long-haul? Sat next to a bare-armed man who wouldn't stop scratching his arms. Being a doctor from the UA-cam School of Medicine, I rapidly diagnosed his having a case of scabies.
@@well-blazeredman6187 Eeeeewwww! Good YouTubing Doctor!
I agree with all these except the window shade one. I pick the window seat mainly because I must have a whale sized bladder and rarely get up to go to the bathroom. And I like endlessly looking out the window. I will close it if there is direct sunlight streaming through and bothering passengers near me but otherwise it's open.
I don't have a whale size bladder, but I have found I can usually not use the bathroom if I go at the airport right before it is time to start boarding.
I agree. I purposely get a window seat so I can look out the window.
Same. I actually get a touch of claustrophobia if I can’t open the shade, at least a little, or if I’m in one of those weird rows that just doesn’t have a window.
Ditto!! I hate it when the windows are closed. I don’t like the feeling of being in a “closed” space! I enjoy seeing the outside clouds and all and especially the landing
Why do the airline staff insist on having the window shades down at night? There is not enough light coming in to disturb anyone.
I had a belief a daughter who was assisting her disabled Dad tell me that in order for him to get up he would need to pull on the back of my seat! Of course, I thanked her, and said it was fine as I had seen him get on! But even if his disability wasn’t obvious I thought it was extremely gracious to be warned. I can’t remember if she asked me to put my seat up as those flights rarely have seats that really recline anyway. My guess she didn’t but I put the back up anyway.
Hi Megan - the only caveat I have to the last rule is all flight attendants should allow passengers who are going to be hauling to another gate or terminal to get to a connecting flight off the plane first especially if the airline was late. If someone next to me is worried about missing their flight, I tell them to talk to the flight attendant to allow them off first as I know they will be running to the next gate. I would add to your list, (1) no punching on pushing the chair in front of you when you are selecting the various entertainment options, (2) don’t let your kid run wild on the plane and bother everyone around them, and (3) for those walking down the aisle, don’t hang and pull down on the seat back as you walk. If you have problems walking then take a cane. I hate when I am jostled awake by someone pulling on my seat.
I agree with you but just want to add that I use a cane and it is always stored in the overhead bins. I have never been allowed to keep it under my seat. I always try to book a seat close to the front/washrooms but it is not fun trying to hobble up there. I have my wheelchair brought up after landing but have to wait and get off last otherwise I would try to wait and go when I arrive at the destination airport. I have waited an extra 45 minutes AFTER everyone has left on Air Canada for my chair. The poor crew were having to wait also.
@@lillianliber1798 I bought a folding cane so I could shove it in the thermos pocket on the side of my backpack that I use as a personal item when flying.
Good luck with that!
@@Hoodat_Whatzit Do you find it sturdy enough?I will have to check them out as it would be more convenient to be able to fold when in my wheelchair or mobility scooter. It always gets in the way! I use a Hugo with a quad tip as my balance is not great.
Good point that and most wouldn't mind
1) The middle seat is trash. Near literal torture on a long-haul flight.
2) On my most recent flight from Madrid to Chicago, I was seated in the emergency row/bulkhead aisle (in seats A & B in your diagram). I watched for 9 hours as people constantly cut across the middle bulkhead row, forcing people to lift their legs or move themselves so that these other passengers could move between the bathrooms on either side. I really felt sorry for those people seated there.
3) Also a new phenomenon that happened on BOTH flights to and from Europe -- jackasses playing their music and videos through phones and laptops WITHOUT USING HEADPHONES. I felt like I was going insane. Are people really that clueless these days about being in a shared public space?
on #2 I never retract my legs so others can get through. Once I was politely asked to move my legs so they can get by and I politely declined. Why should I be inconvenienced so others walk around. It isn’t a playground. It is an airplane. I understand the need to stand on long flights and stretch to get your circulation going and avoid cramping or worse yet, blood clots, but that doesn’t mean you do laps. What if all 350 passengers did that?
People playing audio with no headphones?? That’s insane and the height of rudeness 😮
@@samanthashorey7323 yes. I honestly couldn’t believe it. I hate to be a crusty old man, but people
Today just don’t seem to know how to act in public any more.
I had the same experience last year. The man sitting right behind me had been listening to some podcasts without headphones the entire flight. Fortunately, the flight lasted only 2.5 hours. To make matters worse, the woman sitting next to me started to polish her nails. You can imagine the smell.
Yes, they are that clueless.
Thank you for indicating about fragrances. I never thought of allergies of other passengers. Noted
GREAT list!!!! As a tip for aisle seat passengers that have to move for their seatmates: most aisle armrests have a small button underneath, toward the seat, that allows it to move up. Also works nicely if your own tray is down and you want to just slide out of the seat.
I book the aisle seat due to mobility issues and that little button is a LIFESAVER. It keeps me from having to pull up using the seat in front of me.
Great secret that l have used. But, newer sw planes don't have them.😢
@@grif13 Why in the world would they DO that? Especially knowing how crabby people have become about people touching their seats!
Great video! Thank you for that. Allow me to add one more: walking down the aisle with baggage hanging on your shoulders. Often it looks like a scene from a comedy movie - the person walking with stuff hanging from one or both shoulders and leaving behind a trail of angry expressions on faces that have just been hit. And sometimes, for added pleasure, the shoulder baggage terrorist will make a 90 degrees turn to say something to the friend walking behind them...
Ugh, that's the worst! I carry a backpack and I take it off my shoulder when entering the plane and carry it by the grab handle.
Middle seat - yes 100% gets both arm rests. Had a guy in the aisle that he paid for two armrests. The middle seat guy and I were like "really?", the attendant overheard this and was very professional. "Sir, no one pays for two armrests. Customarily the middle seat gets use of both."
Nope. Middle seat gets to share 2 arm rests.
Additionally, I think you should submit this to the airlines and have the airlines play this after the safety briefing on the little TV screens. Seriously. I think this would be perfect.!!!!!!
Or have a printed sheet for every seat with these inflight courtesy procedures.
In a perfect world maybe! but in the reality of today people would just ignore this as most don't even bother with the safety brief.
Middle seat 😊 too many times to count. Great video on an important subject not usually taught, nor known by all. Never did i expect to hear the phrase "crop dusting" in one of your videos 😂😊 Made me lol! So true!
Haha Tammy, glad it made you laugh too!
What does it mean? I'm not Canadian.
Ok the only one I have a problem with is #12 the window. I like the window and pay for a window because I like to look out the window. Now I have not flown internationally since I was a kid so if your just over empty ocean then I get it. But domestically I like to look out and see the terrain etc and all the lights of the cities if it’s at night. My feeling is if I paid for a window then I can use the window as I see fit. Of course I am courteous to others if the sun is blaring in or the clouds are super bright etc… like in a turn or whatever but if I want to look out then I’m going to look out regardless of how others have their shades up or down. Also if I have a window and the person behind or in front of me does not then that person does not get to control my shade as I have seen on some other videos.
I agree that the passenger who is in the window seat has control over the window shade. Naturally, that passenger should try to be aware when it might be courteous to close or partially close the shade. What other passengers are doing with their window shades is irrelevant. And this opinion comes from someone who likes the aisle seat.
The window shade thing drives me nuts. I’m a little claustrophobic, and having all the shades forced down for 10 hours is awful. Passengers can wear eye masks if they need sleep. I dread my upcoming 14 hour flight because of this.
@@pruemiller8164 I don't have that problem but I feel you. People with their fan blowing all over get me. My asthma triggers and my eyes burn.
Yep, I'm with you. If the sun is glaring in it's one thing. But otherwise I like to look out the window. That's why I pay for those to sit there.
@@pruemiller8164 that’s exactly why they have those eye masks. If people want it dark they have the option to wear one they should not be dictating how people who paid for a window seat control their window shade.
Its crazy that most people do not know these rules and etiquette. Thank you for sharing.
This is an excellent summary … thank you! I just wonder why these are not communicated by the airlines? For example, everyone at least being aware of the middle seat arm rest rule would makes things a lot easier.
Great list and reminders. My main complaint flying lately is the abuse of “carryon” luggage-saw several people with lg rollerboard bags along with large backpacks and large shopping bags as well-tried to put all up in the overhead! And how it delays boarding and leaves no room for other people anywhere near their seat! Think airlines might do better to charge you to carryon but let you check for free!
In the 80's I flew to USA - 1 onboard bag per person & a personal item. Well we get onboard & hear a commotion over a group of very old Americans about their bags. Video cameras were VHS Size so were a mini suit case & then we had an onboard, bag, sun hat & the like. I was forced to load my bag 10 rows away due to these greedy passengers. Well technology changed so those oversized cameras were soon gone. I travelled for work alot domestically so never annoyed anyone in Business Class.
On a recent flight with Lynx Air, the gate attendants pulled ppl out of the line to force them to pay, I laughed out loud. You can't say you missed it when booking, it's a big fat "yes or no" in order to continue with your booking. Cheapskates.
@@zigarten I travelled often domestically for business & used 1 bag only. I used all hotel toiletries & went bare bones on clothes as I was there for work only. I wore my suit onboard & was told off a few times for overweight bag - I was always 1kg under. A few times I stayed at the same hotel so left my bag as I flew home for a meeting. I brought up more clothes & ended up just taking my suit pack & work bag home. I do know a few times hand luggage has been weighed & on your discount airfares they get even more $$$$ from you. Hence why I eat in my lounges before flying as I refuse to pay for a crap meal.
Also add that if you're not in the window seat, you don't control the shade.
One time, I got a window seat to sleep on the plane and had put the shade down. Just as I was falling asleep, it was bright again.... The lady next to me must've reached over me and opened it!!!! When I woke up, she was stretching to look out the window. This was after she was last to board with her heavy jacket on (which of course she had to take off) and her smelly meal. I looked at her with a stern face and closed the shade again.
I've seen people use plastic trash bags as luggage.
Beautifully articulated! I agree with all of this. As other people have commented, it would be SO nice if airlines would play your video on the video screens on planes prior to takeoff. Thanks for another great video.
I agree with these unspoken rules, however I would like to remind the person in the middle seat that although both armrests are theirs that does not allow them to have their arms/elbows extend past the armrest. Recently I had the middle seat persons elbow in my side and he did not speak english and slept the entire flight.
When I had that experience, I was able to shove my elbow onto the armrest and move their elbow out of my ribs thankfully! I tried again to let them have the armrest only to have to repeat my own elbow maneuver. Needless to say, I kept my elbows on the armrest the rest of the flight to spare my ribs from bruising!
Very well said!! These instructions should be played on the tv screens on every flight!
Great video, thanks!
Middle seats never bothers me..I prefer it than aisle probably b/c I always get bumped on the aisle seat.
Never really understood why people would go barefoot on a plane, I mean, the plane is not their house. I see it all the time and just reminds me of trash.
I don't understand the barefoot concept either! Great to have you on the channel, Christy, and happy travels!
I always get the aisle seat because l don’t mind how many times I’m woken up or asked to allow the seat mates to go in or out. On long flights I up and down often.
I always appreciated the flight attendants telling the passenger to bring his seat back up during meal time. So that I could eat my food without hitting my head on the seat back in front of me. Unfortunately many people have no consideration for others any more. My most recent unpleasant experience was a young man sitting in the middle seat next to me spread out his legs so one of his legs was in my space.
I suggest next time that happens put your foot down heavily as you return to your seat.
Manspreading is a thing.
Omg Megan I spat my coffee when you announced #14 😂😂😂😂😂
Middle seat and you're correct is everything you talk about this is actually a breath or fresh air . You hear from others that don't do their research, it's great to hear you have .
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Hi I was just on a flight where the man next to me sat in the seat like he had a basketball between his legs taking up a good 8 inch’s of my space I was forced to fly sitting sideways for 3 hours.. so on your plane etiquette list should be respectful of personal space
I would have asked him to please stop, or at the very least, gone to the "restroom" and asked the flight attendant to casually mention it as she/he walked down the aisle "checking" on passengers.
Great video. I agree with most but I disagree on the window shades. If its night and the cabin lights are off it dark anyway. I love to look at the twinkly lights on the ground. If its daytime its so beautiful out the window. We were once on a flight from Rome back to the US, it was the middle of the day and the flight attendants told us to pull down our shade. Very few people were asleep. Why would you want to sit in a claustrophobic dark cabin in the middle of the day? Plus we were flying east to west so it was a short day anyway. If you want to sleep bring a sleep mask.
shades down helps them control the temp inside the plane..the people in your row may not want the sun glaring in their eyes or on their screens they watching
Rules are rules❤
The shades can be where you want them to be with two exceptions: take-off & landing. Then they are where the flight crew say they go...
Wonderful advice, or should I say "reminders", of many things that are pure common sense and simple etiquette. Many seem to be greatly lacking in these skills. I hope this video helps to educate and emphasize to some passengers that they are NOT the only individual on the plane.
Well Susan..some things you consider right is not right for everybody. "Educate" lol.
@@martinh8873And which ones are not right?
@@sandybruce9092 There is no right and wrong you know, only opinions.
Excellent, considerate actions while flying. Thanks for sharing!!
I'm 6'5" and I prefer Spirit Airlines because I know the person in front of me can't recline their seat into my knees which are already cramped. You can't recline on Spirit and I love that!
There you go, problem solved
Thanks for another great video! May I add #19: Please don’t purchase smelly foods from the airport to eat on the plane. The fish or egg salad sandwich will offend, not just the people beside you, but the entire cabin!
McDonald's is SO smelly!
So true and it is gross for hours and hours.
That was in the video. Pay attention.
Someone next to me brought a sandwich with onions. I was glad he ate it before the flight started. 🤢
Very Good info, unfortunately, these days no one follows rules or etiquette.
Hopefully more knowledge can help to change that! Great to have you on the channel, safe travels!
Good presentation. I wish that persons willing to check their bags would be allowed off the plane first. It might encourage more checked bags & make more room in the overhead for carryons.
Thanks for watching, Vicki!
Totally agree with everything you said. However, I would like to add that being a kind and respectful passenger already starts when booking the flight. If you're someone who has a weak bladder, needs to use the bathroom a lot or who likes to walk around frequently to move their muscles, please do everyone a favour and book yourself an isle seat. Same goes for those persons who rarely ever need to get up and who maybe even tend to sleep the entire flight. Please book a window seat in that case. There are lots of people who are anxious to wake up a stranger and will therefore be uncomfortable for the entire flight. Both of those cases can be really annoying especially for long international flights.
Some very considerate suggestions!
Aside from cramped seating, my pet peeve is international flights that force everyone to put the shades down right after the meal service, even if it's daytime.
There's one U.S.-based airline I used to fly to Asia often, and even thought the flights left the U.S. around 1:00pm, the flight attendants would have everyone put down their shades right after the meal service and keep them down till just before landing. But who goes to bed at 3:00pm (or 5:00am at our destination?)
I much preferred it in the days when we could choose whether to have our shades up or down. There isn't a lot to see over the Pacific, but once I took a Chicago to Osaka flight and was treated to Alaska and the absolutely empty Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia followed by the populous islands of Japan, In those cases, I just pretended I was enjoying an unusually long afternoon, and maybe I dozed off for an hour or two, as I sometimes do in the afternoon, but when we arrived in Asia, it was usually between 4:00 and 6:00pm, and I was not sleepy. I stayed awake till 10pm local time, slept 8 hours, and was showered and dressed, ready for the hotel breakfast at 7:00pm.
I suspect the eight hours of darkness on trans-Pacific flights are DESIGNED to make the passengers groggy so that they won't make too many demands.
Good list and I agree that it should be required watching before all flights. I do disagree with #1 (Only large bags in overhead compartment). On short trips I often travel with just a computer bag and a small backpack. I have no option except to put the backpack in the overhead. While fight attendants have never stopped me, I have gotten glared at by other passengers.
I agree. It is a thing with selfish travelers that they are not going to pay to check their bag. So many of them take up the overhead space even where they are not sitting. It didn't used to be like this before the airlines decided to have us pay for checked bags.
I disagree with number 1 as well, I choose to travel really light and don’t like to have a bag under the seat in front which takes up valuable foot room - if all I bring on board is a small backpack then I should be allowed to put it up in the bag storage.
That’s what the space under the seat in front of you is for. It’s amazing what I can fit under there! And a place to put my feet as I’m in the short side and trying to keep my feet planted in the floor or keeping my legs crossed is very uncomfortable.
Thankfully Australia has size and weight restrictions for carry on luggage and they enforce them when checking in and boarding (they will actually walk through the queue with a scale and force ppl to either check their luggage, or pay overweight carry on fees). Makes the experience so much nicer than having to scramble to get space!!
Excellent information! Thank you.
My pleasure! Glad it was helpful!
I make seat choices as early as possible because of mobility issues. Once a man asked me to move to middle seat for his comfort. No guilt, and I said no. Even had to repeat. No is no.
Thank you for this!!! These are all my pet peeves and it is so nice to hear these courtesies spelled out. The only caveat I have is about the overhead bin. Each seat should have enough space for one standard size roll-on piece of luggage. I feel that is it okay to take up that much space with your item, but no more. Also, can we please address "man-spreading"? Please keep your knees within the parallel lines of your seat! Thank you for listening to my TED talk.
You probably unironically support "equity" yet are unable to make the jump to understand how this applies to men spreading their legs.
I hate manspreading.
When airlines start actually giving enough legroom for normal males (who, sorry sweetie, are more often than not physically taller than women), you can start bitching about ‘manspreading’
Until then, remember it’s often not from choice.
Planning a long haul trip, thanks for the info. The unwritten rules should be written 😊❤
Great tips, but “CROP DUSTING”? 😂 I’m still laughing!
The exception to that last one about getting off the plane in order, if you have a close connection to another flight, especially due to delays, talk to the flight attendants before approach and landing at let them know your situation. They will often assist you in getting off the plane quickly so you can get to your connecting flight, as well as may be able to give you airport information about what gate you are arriving at and possibly what gate you might be departing from.
I've been flying several times a year as our kid moved to a far-away state and my #1 peeve is that people are constantly failing at the carry-on rules. It's always a full flight and despite being told a million times about the 2-item carry-on rule, they schlep in with three or four items and then carelessly slop them into the overhead bins. And so many people still don't understand that they should put their suitcase on its side standing on end, which enables the bin to hold another suitcase.
I agree! So much more bin space when packed properly! Also, airlines are becoming stricter with the carry on rules now that flights are full!
I'm retired now, but I used to fly International from Sydney Australia ...14 hours to LAX, plus before moving "Down Under" as a teacher, I spent 9 years US Army and DOD, which required me to take shorter flights 1-5 hours all through the 70's... One thing was the people in the early 70's were pretty much dressed up, like it was an event...starting in the 90's I saw people walking into the bathroom wearing only socks??? ... finally, since 90% of my flights I was alone ... I had people ask AFTER we were in the air to exchange seats so there partner or kid could sit next to them... Not once did I say no... it's just a seat and do I really enjoy looking out a window for 14 hours... not really. Be civil, treat fellow passengers and staff as you'd like to be treated... pretty simple really.
Nowadays the person may have paid extra to have a seat he is sitting in. It is becoming somewhat rude to ask them to exchange a seat. One should take complaint to the airlines, some of which are now happy to assign disjoint seats for people flying together, even kids, even on the same reservation
@@dmitripogosian5084 My last flight was on Hawaiian Airlines.... a steward asked me if I mind changing seats so this newly wed wife could be next her new husband.... sure no problem, oh, young love... I hadn't paid extra as in economy only the seats by the exit emergency doors have extra leg room and since I'm disabled from combat I can't sit there anyway... so I agree, if you paid extra for one of those 7 seats, then yes sit tight. Me, I'm always on a isle seat (easy to get to the bathroom).... but I'd give it up....plus I was a paratrooper, I have made jumps and spent untold hours in a helicopter...not an experience to enjoy... my Father was a pilot, plus he had a little "piper cub" after he retired.... flying for me was mostly work and the odd flight with my Pop on a weekend... was fun as he used to let me fly it...
Thanks so much for this information. I'm traveling this week and I'm sure I will use all of these rules.
Glad it was helpful, Brenda! Have a super trip!
I once sat in an aisle seat next to someone in the cattle class who has a bladder problem on a 13-hr long haul flight. He literally went to the toilet 4 times every hour, so it was very annoying indeed.
Also someone had pebbledashed the toilet (not just seat but the floor as well as the basin, tap and mirror) from what I heard none of the staff onboard the plane would want to clean it up, so they put an out-of-service sign on the door instead. I thought that was really gross, people should be a bit more considerate of others.
Reminds me of a sign: "We aim to please. You aim, too, please. "
I make sure to never need to use the restroom in a plane! Never!!!
I think bringing sani-wipes into the bathroom would be wise. Just like wiping down seat area is wise.
Lots of people are slobs, especially outside their own home. There's a reason gas station bathrooms have the reputation they do. On a plane you're traveling with those same people. And it takes just one to destroy the restroom for everyone.
Whooaa, this video is jampacked with all the basic etiquettes while flying. Thanks for making this video, Megan.
This was excellent. This should play on loop at the airport while you wait to board.
Rule #12 is BS. I pay for a window seat because I want to see outside. This is particularly so if flying over scenic places like Greenland or over unusual weather conditions. I do understand that the best way to avoid jetlag is to sleep when it is dark outside the plane, and stay awake if it is daylight, but there are times as described where staying awake to enjoy the views takes precedence.
me too. But they will come to close the window. and on 787 window shades are controlled centrally.
I always try to sit right behind the wing because I like watching the wing flex, and when we're landing, watch the ailerons and flaps deploy. So I don't lower the window screen.
Holy shit! Me too! I always look for the wing seat so I can watch
You have to be careful in wing seats, as they are often emergency exits & need to be kept clear. I've had flight crew tell me I have to stash EVERYTHING in the overhead storage when in a wing seat. As such, wing seat travellers get dibs on overhead storage, to keep the emergency exits clear
I have really enjoyed binge watching travel videos. Your work is very professional & informative. I don't travel often. The TSA (Travel Suppression Agency) has made flying so disagreeable that the "hassle factor" is nearly insurmountable. After watching countless gear videos, travel hacks, destination tips, packing advice, I am cross eyed! I have realized that traveling with the "Missus" means I will be going to baggage claim for her steamer trunk, so I might as well check my antique carry-on, right?
Great rules. If everyone was more considerate in public places the world would be so much more a nicer place.
I didn't know a few unwritten rules mentioned, hadn't thought of some, agreed with every one discussed, and subscribed immediately. T-You! 😀
Hello Megan ! Love watching and hearing from you ! I agree with all your unwritten rules as they are common sense however I disagree with the window shade. I always enjoy a window seat for the joy of looking at cloud formations or other aircraft or if I can see oceans, and cities etc. I do agree at night to pull the shade down but at early light I love the shade up regardless if all shades are down.. Catch you next time !
Oh that does make sense too! Thanks for sharing your view and so great to have you on the channel. Happy Travels!
How sad that you believe your need to look out the window outweighs everyone else's need to catch a few more hours of sleep. Boorish behavior!
@@happycook6737 Daylight hours not during the evening and yes, I happen to care about others so you can't judge me You don't know me !!!!!
@@happycook6737 ,eye masks work wonders.
I appreciate when the captain will make an announcement encouraging all passengers sitting in the window seats to lower their shades and be considerate of other passengers, especially during overnight flights. Some passengers heed that request and other passengers ignore that request. (I, for one, appreciate those that appreciate that request 😁)
When I travel with just a small( personal size) backpack I will place it in the overhead bin. It is way smaller than those should be checked carryons.
The perfume one is an absolute must. If I'm exposed to almost any perfume I will cough continuously (I know...strange reaction but it's real).
Perfume causes me to get a major headache and sometimes a cough in such a confined space.
Me too. The doctor told me some asthmatics cough instead of wheezing. Having coughing asthma was very traumatizing during the C pandemic because everyone assumed I was contagious!
I have it too. I'm asthmatic and that's how my attacks start.
People who wear perfume are like smokers. They are inconsiderate. They get so used to the smell that they don't realize how offensive it really is.
I have severe allergies... perfumes AND lotions can trigger my coughing, asthma, itchy, and watery eyes. It is miserable! After having anaphylaxis, I always have anxiety about it (have Epi-pen).
Ty for the short list....
Maybe you should consider abig list of 50 or even 100 things to know and how to correct it 🤔
These are all good suggestions. One thing I like to do when boarding a plane and walking down the aisle to find a seat...if I have a carry-on and purse....I always carry one in each hand, one in front of me and one in back of me. That way I won't bump them into the passengers already seated.
It's interesting....the seats seem to get closer and closer to each other, front to back, every few years. So, passengers, be thoughtful when you raise and/or lower your seatback and/or trays. Not everyone can afford luxury seats.
Crop dusting the plane…LOL! 😂
If I may add- flight attendants begin being on the clock when the plane doors are closed so they can't lift your carryon into compartments as they are not on the clock yet. If they were to get hurt, they are not covered by workers comp.
That situation needs to change. They are working as soon as they enter the aircraft, if not before. How the airlines have been allowed to get away with this for so long boggles the mind.
@@catmom9755 I disagree. I think passengers should lift their own damn luggage themselves.
With the exception of, pregnant women, elderly people or individuals with physical disabilities.
And passengers should be more mindful in their future travels to, lighten luggage.
@@redfoe77 my point wasn't that flight attendants should be lifting bags, it's that they should be PAID at least as soon as they enter the aircraft, not when the doors close.
@@catmom9755 I've heard several times that the cabin crew doesn't get paid until the plane takes off. So if the plane is sitting on the tarmac for an hour, no reimbursement!
I TOTALLY AGREE with what you say 👍👍👍👍I really enjoy your blogs
Hope your dog is well he lovely 👍👍👍👍👍👍
Totally disagree with #1. I need the foot space in front of me (I’m 6’ 2”) and if I’ve paid for the locker space in the price of my ticket, so if I want to put my personal item up there I will. In a considerate, space-aware type way of course.
And then when others come in for their seat there isn’t any space for their item - especially if you decide to,place your item forward before you even get to your seat. Want to know just how much fun it is to have to put an item way in the back when you are seated near the middle? Just check your damn bag!!!
If it’s one item, it shouldn’t be an issue. Two items in the overhead bin would be selfish.
If you are in bulk seating you have to put both your carryon and your personal item in the overhead because you can't have it at your feet when there is no seat there. The rule is for regular seats where passengers are to put their carryon in the overhead and their personal item under the seat in front of them.
@@sandybruce9092 I agree with Rowley (I'm also tall). The airlines need to police size and weight restrictions for carry on luggage - realistically it should be able to fit under the seat in front of you, and if it doesn't it should be checked. Rowley has correctly pointed out that they've paid for a comfy flight, so if you come along after he's already sorted himself out (regardless of where he's put it) and you need to find some space just ask a flight attendant to take care of it for you.
@@sandybruce9092 I've flown a lot and very very rarely was there no room in the overheads. It's no tragedy if your need to stow your stuff away from your seat.
#14 🤣🤣🤣. Two things i never thought I'd hear on this channel, "Farts" and "Crop dusting." 😂😂😂
The comments are absolutely hilarious and I agree with many of them. I am a window person and when I get to my seat and see that the airplane configuration is off and there is no window aligned with my seat, I cannot stand that! It's like having the window shade down for the entire flight. Also, I absolutely have to wear long sleeves and long pants whether it's hot or cold! 🤣✈
I wrote a short story about an unruly passenger on a flight. The flight attendant asked nicely twice then threw them out of the aircraft. Peace and harmony prevailed for the rest of the flight. It might be fun to spread a rumor that all flight attendants have a voucher for one ejection per year, and they wear a badge saying "Ask me about my unused voucher."
Haha! A great way to endure a peaceful flight!
My pet peeve is people who bring more than the two allowed items and airlines that let that happen. Then people who follow the rules are forced to have their carry on, with their valuables, checked. It never seems to happen to the offenders!
I can go back to the 80's when VHS Video Cameras were the size of a bag. 2 bags brought on & too much crap indeed. I learned to check everything I could & take a wheel aboard bag for fragile or essential items
@@matthewbrown6163 Speaking of cameras, as a photographer, I often travel with my gear. It's in a carry-on sized case but under anything but the most dire of circumstances will I ever check it. That's just asking for it to get lost (stolen) or damaged because the baggage handlers forgot to throw it underhanded. On the other hand, I don't carry the camera AND a carryon suitcase. That's too much, and it is also a real PITA to have to lug around an airport.
@@charlesboyer61 I was a videographer & I used to take the smaller cameras onboard with me. On 1 shoot I drove the 10 hours interstate as I was worried of the possible damage to all my gear. As you know YOUR lens are very delicate & the slightest bump will damage them. Pelican cases are brilliant but NOT perfect.
yea. exactly . I see people carry on bags bigger than my main luggage and they get away with it
Partly the airlines’ fault for charging for hold luggage. Nevertheless it’s my pet peeve, I only ever have a day rucksack
#18 absolutely!! Things go much smoother if people disembark by their row number. It just makes sense.
My husband will stand in the isle to stop the people in the back from rushing to the front he’s two foot across six foot tall you’re not going to get past him lol
Wow! Great advice! You’re either a flight attendant, or you spoke directly to one for this info. 😜
One thing to add, do NOT drink alcohol you brought onboard with you, as it is a federal offense and the airline is required to report you to the FAA for non compliance.
Happy and safe travels! ✈️
Glad you liked it! Thanks for sharing the alcohol tip! Great to know!
Concerning "personal item": Many suitcases or notebook bags are way too big for placing them under seat, at least if you have feet that can't be rolled up 🙂 I always place my backpack overhead because I have a knee injury and it hurts to sit without being able to stretch the knee at least a bit over 90°. Airlines should rather enforce the maximum hand luggage size, then their would be enough space in the overhead compartments. It's insane what kinds of suitcases people bring to the cabin without being stopped.
You may want to check your bag so you can put your personal item up above. That way you're not taking someone else's spot
Hi Megan
Not long ago on short 5 hr flight i asked the flight attenant if i could switch to a bulk head seat, she said yes and i did after the seatbelt sign came off. This was great as all three seats where vacant, then i noticed people going to the toilet and crossing over even the crew?
I was then asked to go back to my original seat because i was holding people up...go figure huh
These are actually well-considered rules to have on your mind when travelling, or even in some circumstances in every day life; good neighbour, good traveller :).
Good stuff!
About carry-on luggage..... Sometimes I am carrying valuables that I would like to keep near me. Things that can't be replaced if they were lost or stolen or damaged in a checked bag.
As a young man in 1979 my father and I travelled on an airplane and he taught me many of these rules about middle seat and other airplane courtesies. Served me well ever since.
As a long legged person, I refrain from bringing a carry on to be able to store my backpack in the overhead compartment. I feel that allows me to use the precious space under the seat on front of me for my feet. Otherwise, I'll begin to bring my personal belongings inside a carry on.
on my last flight, I was sitting in row 11 (first row of economy class - more space for the legs). Storing my hand luggage (backpack) "under the seat in front of me" was not an option, because there was no seat in front of me. Therefore I had to put the backpack into the overhead bin (as I had not occupied an overhead bin space quickly - and had boarded after most other passengers anyway - the next free spot in the overhead bins was above row 19, I.e. eight rows behind me)
I didn’t know about the walkway. Thank you for these!
Very comprehensive! Thanks for including #17. My adult daughter was on a 4+ hour flight in March, coming home for spring break, next to someone who was coughing deeply and was so weak that she needed a full minute just to stand up to go to the restroom, and yet this person only wore a mask for the first 10 minutes of the flight. My daughter had the fear of getting sick hanging over her throughout her spring break. She had to decline the snack/drink service to keep her own mask on the whole flight to compensate for the person who wouldn't wear a mask for others.
Then, a little over a week ago, I was on an hour and a half flight next to someone who I thought was just declining the snack/drink service so that she could continue napping with her head on her boyfriend's shoulder, until we landed and she responded "Terrible" when he asked how she was feeling. He reassured her that the gate for the next leg of their trip was next door to where they would be exiting - that's how weak she apparently was. And yet she was unmasked the whole time. I spent my mini-vacation wondering if I was about to get very sick!
Lack of common sense and consideration in our society is stressful to say the least.
My son and daughter-in-law were on a flight from NY to Sacramento and the woman in front of them was coughing. We were supposed to be on a cruise together a couple weeks later. Even though they wore masks, the coughing woman did not. They also missed the cruise with us because they got covid.
Agreed, although it is possible she had a migraine or was pregnant and nauseous, both would make her understandably feel terrible but not be viral.
Meh, that's the only one that I didn't agree with. I have allergies. I also cough when the air is dry (like on a plane). I'm not about to wear a mask because my dry throat or allergy coughing upsets someone else.
Last year I had some allergies getting on the plane but I really didn't feel bad until right when I was getting on. Then I had the worst coughing spell of my life during takeoff and couldn't reach my bag with the cough drops or my water. I was eventually able to get a mask out though since everyone probably already hated my guess
FYI, per the CDC and recent statements by the infamous Dr. Fauci, masks are only 10% effective, and exposure to viruses builds immunity. If you’re worried about getting sick, stay home, the rest of us would like to get on with living, and breathing oxygen, vice our own CO2.
Sitting in your assigned seat during take off is also essential to ensure the aircraft is balanced as pilots use the centre of gravity calculations derived from partly from passenger seating positions to apply the required elevator trim ensuring you have a smooth and safe take off.
Won't make any difference on even a small airliner. Trim is applied as needed, not based on some calculation. They might need to know if you put on 8000lbs between checkin and boarding though
Not only that. It is the LAW, NOT FAD, that you must be in your allocated seat for takeoff and landing. Not just for trim, but if there is a crash the seat numbers identify the corpses your relatives might get the wrong body!
@@boblim3415not quite true. There are calculations made to ensure best handling, especially in emergencies. Pilots all do these calculations before takeoff.
if you can't get your own bag in the overhead compartment yourself, check it. It shouldn't be the flight attendant's or any other passengers responsibility.
Agree. I am very annoyed by the ridiculous amount of luggage that people carry on a flight. I typically travel with a small bag with my notebook and a purse that go under my seat. Everything else gets checked. If someone can afford to fly, they can afford to check their luggage - or do it for free at the gate when the gate attendant asks for people to check their bags because the flight is so full. Boarding and de-boarding would go so much quicker if people weren't trying to get oversized items (plus other bags) out of the bins.
I actually have to fly soon and am recovering from surgery and not allowed to lift more than 5lbs. I will ask a fellow passenger to help me put my rolling laptop case in the overhead. I didn't think about the flight attendant's insurance situation. Also, keep in mind that some people are older and disabled and need to have a bag onboard with them... so don't assume everything should be checked. My mother can't lift her bag up to the overhead because she is disabled... but then she doesn't carry on the largest carryon size bag... she checks those.
This should be mandatory to watch before boarding any flight! Good job.