Ahh, airports. The magical place where people-watching reaches peak entertainment, patience is tested more than the DMV and personal space goes to die. If you’ve ever been to an airport, you’ve probably encountered some…interesting…behavior. Let’s talk about some unspoken (but that should be written down and distributed to all passengers) rules of airport etiquette to help make the air travel experience better.  

Your guide to not being ‘that person’ at the airport 

Before we jump into what not to do at the airport, we’ll show a little grace. Air travel is hard. The rules change from airport to airport (especially when it comes to security), and every airport is laid out differently. No traveler is perfect (we’ve all forgotten to take something out of our pockets or remove our liquids from our carry-ons), but there are some basic courtesies to keep in mind to make everyone’s journey a little smoother. Let’s get into it. 

1. The security line shuffle 

The security line is not a time for spontaneity—it’s a time to be prepared. As soon as you get in line, get out your ID and boarding pass. Don’t wait until it’s your turn to see the security agent before you start searching for these items. And, if you’re not in the TSA PreCheck® line, ensure your laptop and liquids are in easy-to-reach areas. The idea is to get through quickly and easily (and not hold up the passengers behind you). 

2. Luggage goes in the overhead bins or on the floor—not in the seat next to you 

Ever arrived at your gate only to find that seating is limited? And the more you look around, the more solo travelers you see taking up two or three seats with their luggage, laptops, food, coffee, etc. That’s a big no-no. Don’t use the seats next to you to store your stuff; it can go on the floor under the seat in front of your feet. Your fellow passengers would appreciate a place to sit, too. (It’s OK if you’re saving a seat for someone.) 

3. Gate area crowd control 

Are you someone who crowds the gate when boarding begins, even when you’re in boarding group 7? Don’t be that person. By standing in the way, you’re not going to board any faster, and you’ll just make it harder for those in the earlier groups to get through. We promise your seat will still be there when you get on board. 

4. Mind your aisle manners 

Aisles on airplanes feel like they’re getting smaller, don’t they? Even more reason to keep your carry-on bags, purses and personal items close to your body as you trek to your assigned seat. No one wants to get sideswiped by your oversized tote. But if you accidentally bump a head, arm or shoulder, a quick “sorry about that!” will suffice. 

5. Be mindful of overhead bin space 

Raise your hand if you’ve flown recently and haven’t heard the announcement, “Folks, it looks like a full flight today. We’ll gladly check your carry-ons to your final destination for free. Just know that we’ll have to start checking bags once we get to the final few boarding groups.” If you’re in an earlier boarding group, don’t throw your personal items (e.g., bookbags, purses, coats) into the overhead bin. If they can fit under the seat, that’s where they should go. 

6. The middle seat armrest rule 

Here’s a truth that should be carved into airport granite: The person in the middle seat gets both armrests. No discussions, no subtle elbow wars. It’s the only consolation prize for someone wedged between two strangers. If you were in the middle seat, think about what you’d want. (The armrests. You’d want the armrests.) 

7. Control the scents and smells 

We’ve all been there. Someone boards the plane, and you can smell their perfume or cologne 10 rows before they even get to you…and it lingers long after they’ve passed. Ditch the scent before you board; you can apply it later (after you exit the plane). And let’s also discuss food that’s a little more…pungent. Remember that you’re trapped in a flying tin can with recycled air, so maybe save that tuna sandwich, onions or hardboiled egg for after you land. 

Bonus tip: Headphone etiquette 

This one’s a quick PSA: If you blast your music, podcast or movie without headphones, you’re one announcement away from becoming a public enemy. Be respectful of those around you who may be trying to sleep, read or even watch their own movie (wearing their headphones, thank you very much)—and keep the tunes to yourself. 

Happy travels! 

And there you have it—a rundown on how not to be that person at the airport. Follow these tips, and your fellow travelers (and their blood pressure) will thank you. Just be the traveler you wish everyone else would be. Safe travels!