The Unwritten Rules of Airplane Etiquette: Do We Need a Guide?

Flying should be one of the most exciting parts of travel… but let’s be honest, it can also feel like a cramped, high-altitude episode of reality TV. From seat kickers to armrest hogs and the audacity of barefoot passengers, it’s clear: we might need an official Airplane Etiquette Guide. Since no one seems to be handing out rulebooks at the gate, allow me to volunteer as tribute.

Melissa Ridge

5/4/20252 min read

The Unwritten Rules of Airplane Etiquette (That Everyone Should Follow)

1. Thou Shalt Not Recline Without Warning

Yes, the button exists. No, that doesn’t mean you get to slam your seat back mid-meal while I’m balancing a scalding coffee. If you must recline, give a polite glance or warning first. It’s not that hard.

Pro Tip: Book seats with extra legroom through Aviasales or WayAway and avoid this drama altogether.

2. The Middle Seat Gets Both Armrests

This is the holy grail of travel etiquette. Window gets the view, aisle gets freedom, middle gets both armrests. If you don’t know this, you’re part of the problem.

3. Shoes Stay On (Seriously)

I don’t care how long the flight is — your feet stay in your shoes or clean socks. Nobody wants to see, smell, or accidentally brush up against your toes at 35,000 feet. Treat yourself to a comfy pair via Trip.com for those long-haul flights.

4. Quiet Down the In-Flight Spa Treatments

Face masks, loud TikTok videos, and full-body stretches in the aisle are a hard no. Keep it simple, folks.

5. Be a Carry-On Pro

If your bag won’t fit, don’t pretend. Book extra luggage space through EconomyBookings or leave it at home. Also — if you’re in row 28, your bag doesn’t belong in row 4’s overhead.

Travel Like a Pro with These Must-Haves:

Airalo: eSIM data for when you land.
VisitorsCoverage: Travel insurance because who knows.
Radical Storage: Stash your bags, explore hands-free.
KiwiTaxi: Reliable airport transfers that won’t ghost you.
Seadar: For those post-flight yacht days (because why not?).

Final Thoughts: Should There Be a Guide?

Yes. A laminated card with these rules should be tucked right next to the safety manual. Until then, let’s share this blog and raise awareness for the silent suffering middle seat warriors and accidental elbow jousters of the skies.

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