25 Things You Should Never Do While Flying

Woman with her shoes off on an airplane
Adobe Stock

Flying can be exciting, but it also requires patience, awareness, and a bit of etiquette. With limited space and long hours, the wrong move can make the journey uncomfortable for you and everyone around you. By avoiding some common in-flight mistakes, you’ll make air travel smoother and more enjoyable. Here are 25 things you should never do while flying.

1. Reclining Without Checking

Interior of an airplane
Unsplash / JC Gellidon

Reclining your seat without checking behind you can cause problems. You might spill someone’s drink, knock over a laptop, or disrupt someone’s personal space. A quick glance before reclining can prevent discomfort for the person behind you. On shorter flights, consider skipping the recline altogether to keep things easy for everyone.

2. Ignoring Personal Hygiene

Flight attendant on an airplane
Unsplash / Lukas Souza

Airplane cabins are cramped spaces, so personal hygiene matters more than ever. Whether it’s skipping deodorant or wearing too much perfume, these things can easily bother others. A fresh shower and neutral scents are best before a flight. Small adjustments like these can make the cabin environment more pleasant for everyone onboard.

3. Removing Your Shoes and Socks

Person wearing Nike sneakers
Unsplash / Paul Volkmer

Taking off your shoes and socks might feel comfortable, but it can be unpleasant for those around you, especially if odors become an issue. If you need to remove your shoes, keep your socks clean and fresh. Be mindful of others’ space, and never put your feet on the seat in front of you.

4. Blocking the Aisle During Boarding

Interior of an airplane with passengers
Unsplash / Gerrie van der Walt

Standing in the aisle as you organize your belongings slows down the boarding process. Instead of blocking others, step into your row to allow passengers behind you to pass. Boarding is already stressful enough, and a little consideration can make things smoother for everyone trying to get settled.