How to Avoid Being the “Annoying Passenger” on a Plane

annoying passenger

If you’re a frequent traveler, you probably have some good stories about an annoying passenger on your flight. While most travelers are courteous to their fellow passengers, there are always those who don’t have much regard for them. Here’s how to avoid being the passenger that people don’t forget (and not in a good way):

Use the right overhead compartment.

Have you ever seen a passenger get on a plane and then immediately store their carry-on in the nearest overhead bin? Don’t be that person – store yours in the overhead designated for your seat. Storing it elsewhere means those passengers will have to find another place to store their carry-on.

Don’t crowd the gate out of turn.

Nearly every airline lets you choose your seat on the plane before you board, so there’s no reason to jump up and be the first in line at the entrance gate. We know you’re excited, but sit back and wait for your zone to be called – your seat isn’t going anywhere.

Keep your music at a decent volume.

Whether you travel via plane, train, or bus, there’s always someone who listens to their music way too loud. Don’t be that person. Use headphones that fit your ears and be courteous to those around you – some people may want some quiet time or want to sleep.

Respect personal space.

If you’ve ever had a seatmate that hogs the armrest, puts their feet in your area, or falls asleep leaning a little too far towards you, you know how frustrating it can be. We know plane seats are small, but that’s no reason to not respect your seatmate’s personal space.

Wait your turn to deplane.

Once the plane lands, don’t jump up and try to get off before the passengers in front of you – that’s not how it works. Each row exits before the next, so wait patiently for your turn instead of trying to trample past others.

Don’t use the seats for leverage.

When you get up to go to the bathroom, don’t use the seat in front of you to pull yourself up. In addition, don’t use the seats to balance yourself when you walk down the aisle. Instead, push yourself up on the armrests and use the overhead bins for balance. This way, you won’t disturb the other passengers.

Avoid aromatic foods.

An airplane is a confined area and smells travel fast, so if you’re hungry, avoid eating foods that give off a strong smell. You may like the smell of tuna fish, garlic sauce, hard-boiled eggs, or popcorn, but other passengers might not.

Pay attention to your kids.

One of the most annoying types of passenger is the “inattentive parent.” There’s not much worse than a screaming or crying child on a plane and a parent who doesn’t care to comfort them. We know you may not be able to get them to stop screaming or crying, but it’s at least comforting to others to know that you’re trying.