17 Things to Do as Soon as You Board a Plane

1. Store Your Carry-On Luggage Securely

When you board the plane, swiftly tuck your carry-on under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. Make sure it’s snug like a bug—nothing’s poking out or set to tumble! Got a heavy bag? Place it wheels out so grabbing it later is a cinch.

2. Sanitize Your Hands

Once you’ve settled into your seat and stowed your baggage, give your hands a good cleanse. Airplanes are shared spaces, and we all know that means lots of germs. Your luggage has been on quite the journey, touching various surfaces even before you board.

3. Wipe Down Your Seat & Tray Table

Before you buckle up for takeoff, it’s a smart move to give your space a quick clean. Grab some antibacterial wipes and swipe them across your seat. Don’t forget the headrest and seatbelt—everyone touches those! Now, on to your tray table; it’s a hotspot for germs. A few wipes should do the trick.

4. Fasten Your Seatbelt

As soon as you find your seat on the plane, slip into your seatbelt. It’s a simple way to stay safe, just like when you’re in a car. Make sure it’s snug around your hips, ready for take-off.

Feel free to adjust it to be comfy. Remember, it’s not just safe; it’s the law to wear your seatbelt when the sign is on. Even when the seatbelt sign is off, it’s smart to keep it on in case of bumps.

5. Adjust Your Air Vent

Once you’re cozily seated, it’s time to fine-tune your environment—start with the air vent above. Twirl it gently to control the breeze; a small tweak can mean the difference between a chill and a gentle draft.

Feeling stuffy? Open it up and let the cool air soothe you. If it gets too brisk, angle the vent away or close it slightly. Finding that comfy airflow is key for a relaxing flight.

6. Review the Safety Information

Once you’re settled in your seat, grab that safety information card tucked in front of you. This card maps out crucial details about your plane’s exits, what to do if there’s an unexpected event, and how to use lifesaving gadgets like life vests.

7. Familiarize Yourself With the Nearest Exits

Once you find your seat, make a game out of spotting the nearest exits. Counting the rows between you and the safest way out turns a routine glance into a mini-challenge. This isn’t just a quirky thing to do—it’s a smart move for your safety.

8. Set Your Devices to Airplane Mode

When you find your seat on the plane, it’s key to switch your phone and other gadgets to airplane mode. Your devices can still be used—listen to music, watch a downloaded show, or play games in peace! Just no calls or texts.

9. Check the Backseat Pocket

As soon as you’re nestled in your seat, take a quick peek into the seatback pocket in front of you. Maybe you’ll find a book left by a previous traveler or a water bottle that’s rolled to the back.

If you spot any trash, give it to a flight attendant so they can dispose of it properly. Clearing up not only gives you more room, but also helps keep the plane tidy for everyone.

10. Put on Compression Socks

Slip into your compression socks as soon as you settle into your seat. These snug heroes are not just any socks, they keep the blood flowing. Especially on a long-haul flight, you’ll want to keep leg swelling and discomfort at bay.

11. Ensure Your Seat is Upright

When you find your seat on the plane, make sure to adjust your seat back to the upright position. It’s a safety thing! In case of an unexpected event during takeoff or landing, a straight seat ensures you and the person behind you have enough space.

12. Introduce Yourself to Your Seatmate

When you settle into your seat on a plane, offering a cheerful “hi” to your seatmate can set a friendly vibe for your journey together. This simple greeting is a nice way to acknowledge the person sharing your row.

Remember to keep it low-key; not everyone is up for a chat. If they seem open, share your name and a smile without delving into personal space. A quick intro is the perfect touch for a pleasant flight.

13. Locate the Call Button & Reading Light

When you find your seat on the airplane, look for two important buttons near you. The call button is there for you to alert flight attendants when you need them. It usually shows a little person with a tray icon—super handy if you need assistance or have a question during the flight.

Next to it, you’ve got the reading light. Great for when you want to catch up on your favorite book or skim through a magazine without squinting. This button normally has a light bulb icon.

14. Organize Your Personal Items

Once you’re snug in your seat, it’s time to get those personal items in order! Make sure your essentials are within easy reach. Stash a cozy scarf or sweater nearby—planes can get chilly.

And hey, don’t forget your headphones—music or movies can make the time fly by! Your snacks and a water bottle should be handy too for when those munchies hit.

15. Hydrate By Drinking Water

When you’re on a plane, sipping on water is your golden ticket to feeling great. Airplanes are quite dry places, and that can lead to dehydration quicker than you’d think.

Bring a water bottle because many airports now have water stations where you can fill up before you board, and it’s a smart move. If you forgot your bottle no worries, flight attendants are there to help you out.

It’s best to steer clear of caffeine or alcohol during your flight. Stick with good old H2O, or if you’re feeling tropical, coconut water is a fantastic choice, packed with natural electrolytes.

16. Adjust the Headrest

After finding your seat on the plane, give your neck a break by tweaking the headrest. Can it move up or down? Slide it until it’s just right. If it tilts, angle it to cradle your head, like a cozy pillow. Some headrests have wings; pull them forward to rest easy.

17. Plan Walks to Strecth Your Legs

On long-haul journeys that keep you seated for hours, your legs need a bit of freedom! It’s super important to keep the blood flowing so remember to take a stroll through the cabin aisles.

A walk around every hour or so makes a big difference. Not only does it prevent stiffness, but it also reduces the chance of leg discomfort. Stretching your legs isn’t just good for you – it’s a must for keeping your flight pleasant.