With lengthy queues, security checks and the general chaos of finding your gate in a sea of people, it’s easy to see why air travel can be stressful.
However, travel experts at Wild Packs are warning that one of the most avoidable causes of frustration and delay lies in the way passengers manage their luggage.
According to a Co-op survey, 65 percent of Brits consider the airport to be one of the most stressful parts of their trip, with delays and the security process, including weighing luggage, cited as major contributors.
Jamie Fraser, a travel expert from Wild Packs, highlighted a common hand luggage mistake that can slow down boarding and cause unnecessary fuss.
“One of the most common mistakes people make when boarding their plane is using the overhead compartments incorrectly,” said Fraser.
With airlines increasingly charging more for checked luggage, more passengers are opting for carry-on bags, which often leads to overcrowding in the overhead bins.
“Many people ignore size restrictions or fail to store their bags properly, placing small personal items in the overhead bin instead of under the seat. Some travellers also assume they have sole rights to the bin above their seat, even if it’s already full,” Fraser explained.
These actions can lead to delays, as flight attendants may need to check bags into the hold at the last minute.
Another common mistake is grabbing your bag from rows behind you when deplaning.
“This can cause delays,” warned Fraser. “It forces other passengers to stop while you try to reach your bag, clogging up the aisle and slowing down the whole process.”
He recommends that if your bag is stored further back, it’s better to wait until the aisle is clear or until most passengers have left the plane before retrieving it.
Fraser also points out that being unaware of your surroundings can lead to bottlenecks during boarding.
“While rushing to get their seat, passengers will swing their bags without realising they’re knocking into others, or they stop suddenly in the aisle, creating a bottleneck for other passengers,” he explained.
Struggling with oversized hand luggage adds to the hold-up, as plane cabins are narrow and usually packed with other travellers and cabin crew members.
“The best way to avoid this is to keep your bags close to your body and be mindful of those around you before moving,” advised Fraser.
