1. PACK LIGHT - I would suggest packing your cabin bag as light as possible. Cabin crew are NOT there to put your cabin bag in the overhead compartment. This mostly applies to larger airlines that provide free luggage allowance. My cabin bag usually consists of my laptop, phone charger, travel pillow & my "travel pack". I can't stress enough how handy my "travel pack" has been on flights. It consists of a small empty water bottle, chips/snacks, chocolates, books/magazines, medications & a pashmina (aircrafts are usually chilly). I also usually have this travel pack in a separate bag so as soon as I find my seat I can quickly grab it out of the cabin bag to keep in my seat pocket. Not only does it save you time looking for these items, it also ensures you are out of the aisle quicker and avoid getting bumped or shoved out of the way by other passengers (& that you are not blocking the aisle).
2. PACK AN EMPTY WATER BOTTLE - As I don't always have time after security to pick up a bottle of water, packing an empty one makes a huge difference. Most airlines will not hand out bottles of water in ecomomy. You either have to wait for the bar cart to come around or go get a cup yourself (DO NOT PRESS THAT CALL BELL!). Cabin crew are usually more than happy to fill up your water bottle rather than having you flag them down 5 times for water. Having a bottle also ensures you stay hydrated on the flight.
3. TRY TO BOARD EARLY - Airlines usually load by zones or seat rows. I suggest being at the boarding gate earlier rather than later to ensure you get a space for your cabin bag in the overhead compartment. Contrary to common belief, the overhead locker above your seat is NOT your locker. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Keep in mind you are on a plane and that space is limited. Not only do the compartments have to fit passengers bags, it is also required to store crew & flight items as well such as blankets, headset bags, etc. If there isn't any more space you have 1 of 2 options. Offload your bag (take out all your valuables) & it will be on the carousel when you land OR you can keep it under your seat.
4. WALK AROUND - You need to stretch your legs & get your circulation going. This helps avoid deep vein thrombosis & helps reduce the chance of swollen feet. Also a great way to meet some new people & have a chat on an otherwise potentially boring flight.
5. PACK SNACKS - You don't know if you will like the food served or will necessarily be hungry only when you are being served. I ALWAYS carry snacks onboard with me. Parents...this is especially important for young kids! If you are hungry during non service time crew might attempt to find you something but it will most likely be a piece of fruit or a bread roll or something not that substantial or to your liking. Chips & chocolates are usually my go to snacks. Every now & then I'll pack some Chinese buns or mini sandwiches to carry along.
6. LANDING/IMMIGRATION CARDS - Please fill these out when you get them NOT just before landing while the crew are telling you to put your tray table up! I can't tell you how many times we've given out landing cards at the start of a 13 hour flight only to have to demand passengers to use a magazine as a hard surface when they are furiously trying to complete it a few minutes before touchdown. Your tray table needs to be stowed!!!
7. CARRY A PEN - You will need this for tip 6. In general if you are traveling you will need a pen at some point. You would be surprised how many people don't carry one.
8. BE NICE TO THE CREW - Treat others as you expect to be treated. If you yell at the crew because they took too long to get you your drink, good luck to you if you need anything else on that flight! Keep in mind that cabin crew are MAINLY there for your safety. We just happen to also serve you food & drinks. Also keep in mind that should anything go wrong, your lives depend on the crew & their training. Remember that the next time they run out of chicken & you have to eat the beef.
9. KIDS - If you are a parent, please pack snacks & colouring books/games/ whatever will keep your child busy. Parents with infants....formula should be your best friend! If not then kindly purchase milk in duty free. Fresh milk is not always available onboard. If you are NOT a parent, carry earplugs. Trust me!
10. BE PATIENT - Travelling is tiresome. You are usually stuck waiting in a long check in line, then cramped up in a small seat for hours. You will need patience to deal with the inevitable irate passenger at the check in desk & the crying baby on the aircraft. Travel delays are also inevitable. I suggest summoning up all the patience you have & keeping calm in times like this. After all you will be at your destination or home soon! ;)
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