What Makes a Traveler Bad or Inconsiderate? 10 Things You Might Be Doing Unaware on Planes, Trains, and Cruise Ships
Traveling can be a transformative and life-changing experience, opening up new cultures, meeting incredible people, and soaking up unforgettable views. However, there’s a darker side to travel that often creeps up when we’re so focused on our own experience that we forget the people around us. Whether it’s on a crowded plane, a busy train, or a peaceful cruise ship, being an inconsiderate traveler can ruin someone else’s journey.
Now, don’t worry. We’re not here to shame anyone — we’ve all made mistakes along the way! But if you want to avoid becoming that traveler, you might want to check out this list of behaviors that can make you a less-than-ideal travel companion. Awareness is key, and with a few adjustments, we can all contribute to a better, smoother, and more enjoyable travel experience for everyone.
10 Things You Might Be Doing Unaware on Planes
- Reclining Your Seat Without Warning
We’ve all been there — flying economy, squeezed into narrow seats, craving that tiny bit of extra comfort by reclining your chair. But when you recline without checking or warning the person behind you, you can spill their drink, knock over their laptop, or invade their already limited space. A little courtesy can go a long way. Always glance back and give a quick heads-up before you lean back. - Ignoring the Boarding Groups
Many airlines board passengers in groups for a reason: to make the process smooth and efficient. Jumping ahead of your group just because you’re anxious to get on the plane is inconsiderate. Stick to your designated boarding group to keep the process stress-free for everyone. - Using Both Armrests in the Middle Seat
If you’ve ever been stuck in the middle seat, you know it’s not a fun place to be. One unwritten rule of flying etiquette is that middle-seat passengers get first dibs on the armrests. Hogging both armrests when you’re in the window or aisle seat makes a cramped experience even worse for the middle-seat traveler. - Kicking the Seat in Front of You
We get it — there’s barely any legroom, and sometimes it feels like you can’t avoid bumping the seat in front of you. But repeatedly kicking or pushing against it, either with your feet or knees, will drive the person sitting there nuts. Be mindful of your movements and give people in front of you their space. - Blasting Music or Watching Videos Without Headphones
It’s 2024, and yet somehow, people still forget to bring headphones on flights. Blasting your music or watching movies at full volume is a surefire way to irritate everyone around you. Always pack your earbuds and keep the volume down. - Taking Off Your Shoes (and Socks!)
The temptation to get comfy is real on long flights, but taking off your shoes (especially your socks!) can be a big no-no. Feet smell — there’s no way around it. Keep those shoes on unless you’re in business or first class, where extra foot space is provided. - Blocking the Aisle
Whether you’re loading your bag into the overhead bin or trying to settle into your seat, don’t block the aisle for too long. People are trying to pass, and lingering creates unnecessary delays. Keep things moving, and if you need extra time, step into your seat to let others by. - Hogging the Overhead Bin
Airlines are pretty strict about carry-on luggage these days. Putting more than your fair share of stuff in the overhead bin, like oversized bags or extra jackets, leaves other travelers without space. Try to limit your overhead bin usage to one item and place smaller bags under your seat. - Using the Bathroom During Meal Service
Timing is everything on a plane, and heading for the bathroom just as the meal carts are coming down the aisle is a bad move. You’ll block the service and frustrate the flight attendants. Plan your bathroom breaks in advance. - Ignoring the Flight Attendants’ Instructions
When a flight attendant asks you to put your seat upright or store your bag properly, they’re not doing it to annoy you — they’re doing it to keep everyone safe. Ignoring their instructions creates unnecessary tension and risks safety. Follow their directions and show them respect.
10 Things You Might Be Doing Unaware on Trains
- Playing Music or Videos Without Headphones
Just like on planes, listening to music or watching videos without headphones is a major train etiquette violation. Keep the noise to yourself and use headphones to avoid disturbing other passengers. - Taking Up Extra Seats with Bags
Trains, especially during rush hour, can get packed. Placing your bag on the seat next to you when others are standing is rude. Stow your bag overhead or at your feet and free up seats for other passengers. - Blocking the Doorways
If you’re getting off soon or just arrived, don’t stand in the doorways, blocking people from entering or exiting the train. Step aside or move into the aisle to give others room. - Eating Smelly Food
We all need to eat, but there’s a time and place for certain meals. Bringing pungent or greasy food onto a crowded train isn’t the best choice. Stick to snacks that are easy to eat and won’t overwhelm others with strong smells. - Talking Loudly on Your Phone
A loud phone conversation in a quiet train car can disturb everyone around you. Try to keep your voice down or take your call to a less crowded space, especially on longer journeys. - Not Letting People Off Before You Get On
When the train pulls into the station, it’s polite (and more efficient) to let passengers get off before you try to board. Rushing to get on before others have exited just causes congestion. - Sprawling Out in a Crowded Car
If the train is full, don’t stretch your legs into the aisle or take up more space than you need. Keep your bags close, your legs in your own space, and be mindful of the limited room. - Putting Your Feet on the Seats
Just like on planes, no one wants to sit where someone’s feet have been. It’s unhygienic and rude. Keep your feet off the seats and use the floor if you need to stretch out. - Leaving Trash Behind
Whether it’s a wrapper or an empty coffee cup, leaving trash behind for someone else to clean up isn’t cool. Take your trash with you or find a bin before you exit the train. - Failing to Offer Your Seat to Those in Need
If you’re able-bodied and see someone who is elderly, pregnant, or struggling to stand, offer them your seat. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference.
10 Things You Might Be Doing Unaware on Cruise Ships
- Hogging Poolside Chairs
Reserving a poolside chair by leaving a towel or personal item on it for hours when you’re not using it is one of the most frustrating things for fellow cruisers. If you’re not using the chair, let someone else enjoy it. - Overloading the Buffet Plate
Buffets are all-you-can-eat, but piling your plate high and wasting food is inconsiderate. Take what you can finish, and remember, you can always go back for seconds. - Being Loud in Quiet Zones
Cruise ships often have designated quiet areas for reading or relaxing. Respect those spaces by keeping your voice low and avoiding loud activities like playing music or talking on the phone. - Letting Your Kids Run Wild
Kids love cruise ships, but that doesn’t mean they should run unsupervised through hallways or public spaces. Keep an eye on your kids to ensure they’re not disturbing others. - Holding Up the Elevator
Cruise ships are huge, and elevators are a necessity for many passengers. Don’t hold up the elevator by pressing multiple floors or blocking the door while you chat. - Cutting in Line for Activities
Whether it’s for the buffet, a show, or an excursion, cutting in line is always a bad look. Wait your turn and respect others who have been waiting longer. - Overindulging in Alcohol
Cruises are known for their endless drinks packages, but drinking too much can lead to disruptive behavior. Know your limits and avoid becoming the loud, obnoxious guest everyone tries to avoid. - Loud Hallway Conversations
Cruise ship cabins aren’t soundproof, so loud conversations in the hallway late at night can disturb sleeping passengers. Keep your voice down, especially when passing cabins. - Leaving Towels or Litter on the Deck
When you’re done lounging by the pool or on the deck, don’t leave your towels or litter behind for staff to clean up. Pick up after yourself and help keep the ship tidy.
Solid Advice: Consider Others As You Travel
At the end of the day, we’re all sharing this planet and, by extension, the spaces we travel through. Whether you’re on a plane, train, or cruise ship, remember that you’re not alone. A little courtesy and awareness of those around you can make the journey better for everyone. Traveling is about creating happy memories, and it’s hard to do that when we’re focused only on ourselves.
Bonus Travel Tips for the Savvy Traveler
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Planning a big trip? Don’t stress — check out my Ultimate Travel Guides. These cheat sheets handle everything for you, from where to stay to what to do, so you can enjoy a seamless, worry-free vacation. And don’t forget to protect yourself with Nomad Health Insurance by SafetyWing — it’s essential for peace of mind while exploring the world.
Until next time here’s to smooth skies, good company, a journey full of happy memories. I’m your Travel Hack Guide to affordable luxury tips. Catch you later. Peace
Travel Hack Guy
