Think Before You Board
Shouldn’t: Drink Too Much
No one enjoys using the lavatories on planes. While you should try to keep hydrated by drinking water in-flight, you can avoid waiting in annoying bathroom lines early in the flight by watching how much you drink before boarding the plane. Since you're gauging what you drink, don't consume too many carbonated or alcoholic beverages, either. Both kinds of drinks slightly dehydrate you, and alcohol might make you a little too comfortable with raising your volume while flying.
Should: Wear as Much as Possible
For those of us who have a hard time editing down what we want to pack, here's a tip: Wear as many layers as you can. The weight allowance for your bags can seem restrictive, but if you have to tie your favorite pair of jeans around your waist in order to cut down luggage poundage, so be it. Since it's usually freezing onboard (and who knows who has used that blanket today), this can also be a practical way to stay warm while in the air.
Shouldn’t: Bring Odorous or Fast Food Onboard
Many people opt for bringing food from home or the airport over purchasing expensive plane meals (and sometimes food services aren't offered on shorter flights). While this is allowed, you should be considerate of your fellow passengers and avoid food with strong smells. The lingering scent of fast food is uncomfortable for the entire plane. Don't be that person.
Should: Use Your Own Overhead Bin
When boarding the plane, place your carry-on luggage in the overhead bin directly above your row—not the first row you find with a free space. Also, only one piece of luggage should go up there, while your personal item (or second bag) should always go under your seat. If everyone did this, disembarking planes would be much quicker and more efficient. Not to mention, in case you do need access to your overhead bag, you wouldn't have to keep track of where you stowed it.
Shouldn’t: Wear Contacts
The pressurization and high altitude of airplanes make the air notoriously dry. If you wear contacts, this is the perfect recipe for uncomfortable eyes in the sky. Consider removing your contacts during the flight and wearing your prescribed frames instead. You can pop your lenses right back in when you land.
Should: Sit Down Immediately
It's unanimous that everyone on the plane is frustrated with the family who can't figure out who is sitting where, and as a result, a line backs up down the aisle until they figure it out. It inconveniences others, including the crew members who need to keep to a tight schedule, when you don't take a seat after stowing your luggage. Know your seat assignment, and take it as soon as possible after securing your bag. Let others through to their seats before rearranging anything.
