Avoid These Three Common Travel Mistakes to Keep Holiday Flights Smooth
NEW YORK — As millions of Americans take to the skies this holiday season, former flight attendants are sounding the alarm about three common passenger mistakes that can quickly transform what should be a joyful Christmas journey into a stressful ordeal. From overstuffed overhead bins to unpreparedness for winter delays and discourteous conduct, these pitfalls are causing headaches for travelers and airline crews alike.
Skye Taylor, who spent 17 years as a flight attendant, told Luxury Travel Daily and Jam Press that the holiday rush brings an influx of passengers carrying more than just their essentials. Many travelers overpack, bringing multiple changes of clothes and gifts, which not only adds weight to the aircraft but also creates a scramble for limited overhead bin space. “If you can, ship gifts over before you travel so you have less to bring with you,” Taylor advised, noting that the resulting congestion often forces crew members to intervene and remove bags from the cabin, slowing down the boarding process.
Etiquette expert and former flight attendant Jacqueline Whitmore echoed these concerns in an interview with Fox News Digital, emphasizing the importance of respecting personal space. “Passengers should ensure their bags fit easily into the bin or under the seat in front of them — and they should never move someone else’s belongings without asking,” Whitmore said. Travelers relying solely on carry-ons are especially vulnerable to the chaos caused by packed bins. Both experts recommend checking larger suitcases rather than juggling multiple bags onboard.
Winter weather is another perennial challenge during the holiday travel season. Taylor warned that passengers often underestimate the length of delays caused by snow and ice, as well as the cold temperatures inside planes while waiting on the tarmac. “Always take a piece of warm clothing with you, even if you’re jetting off to Jamaica,” she said. The Federal Aviation Administration routinely issues advisories during winter months, urging travelers to allow extra time and pack accordingly.
Rude or disruptive behavior also ranks high among issues that can sour holiday flights. The U.S. Department of Transportation has reported a rise in unruly passenger incidents in recent years, prompting airlines to increase staff training and enforce stricter penalties. Whitmore stressed that maintaining civility and patience goes a long way toward a pleasant travel experience for everyone.
With the holiday travel season expected to be busy, the Transportation Security Administration recommends arriving early, packing light, and preparing for potential delays to ease the journey. By avoiding these common mistakes, travelers can help ensure their Christmas flights are less chaotic and more festive.
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