Generally speaking, I enjoy flying, and I enjoy getting to know my fellow travelers. Of course I do, or I wouldn’t be the author of a travel blog. While the vast majority of my air travel experiences have either been great, good, or “a learning opportunity,” there are a few types of airline passengers who annoy me to no end.
Mr. Trying To Avoid Checking A Bag
Okay, I get it: It’s not fun to pay an extra fee to check your baggage. But the fact of the matter is that your willingness to shoehorn all of your belongings into an overstuffed carry-on that won’t fit in the overhead bin or under your seat doesn’t endear you to any of your fellow passengers. This problem is even worse in small regional jets, where the overhead bins are too small to hold larger carry-ons. Do yourself and your fellow passengers a favor: Don’t be an annoying traveler; just shell out the $25 to check your bag and get a reasonable-sized carry-on for your laptop, toiletries, and that extra shirt and pair of underthings.
Ms. I’m The Most Important Person In This Line
Of course you want to rebook your flight after your original one was cancelled. But guess what: We all do. And that’s why we’re all waiting in this line. Instead of cutting into the line and demanding to get rebooked to your destination RIGHT NOW because you “have an important meeting” (as if everybody else at the airport is just there because they have nothing better to do), try taking a deep breath and realizing that you are, in fact, being an annoying traveler. No matter what you think, you’re just a mere mortal, not the Queen Of All You Survey. We all want to get where we’re going, so get back in line and wait patiently like the rest of us.
The Oblivious Parent Club
Sure, I understand: Having kids is difficult sometimes, and at no time is that truer than when it comes to traveling by plane. Of course you’re tired from dealing with checking in, checking your bags, clearing security, and getting your little clan to the gate. That does not, however, give you an excuse to let your precious little darling kick the seat in front of them or get in everyone else’s space. Teach your children well, people; don’t raise an annoying traveler. And your ability to control your offspring will certainly make your fellow passengers a lot happier.
Mr. Too Much Cologne
Dude, you’re going to be stuck in a metal tube for hours, crammed next to strangers who may not think that Axe is as awesome as you do. Not only that, but there are a growing number of people who are extra-sensitive to the stink of body sprays and dryer sheets. Do us all a favor and forgo the cologne. But please, don’t forget the deodorant!
I’ve also got to give a shout-out to Mr. Too Much Cologne’s female counterpart, Ms. Too Much Perfume. All the same admonitions apply to you, too.
Ms. Just Call Me Captain Morgan
Sure, enjoying a drink at the airport lounge could be a good way to pass the time. And a little booze might ease the tension if you’re scared of flying. However, enjoying several drinks will turn you into an instant annoying traveler. Even if you’re a friendly drunk, nobody wants to sit next to someone whose impulse control is low, who needs to take numerous trips to the lavatory, and whose behavior may delay the flight or get it diverted from its original destination. No member of the flight crew wants to deal with an intoxicated traveler, either. Do your fellow travelers a favor and stay sober when you’re flying.
What kinds of travelers annoy you the most when you’re flying? Do you have any annoying traveler stories to share? Please do so in the comments!