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Justice Simango
As we welcome the festive season, many of us will be travelling to various destinations and for our personal reasons, we will use different modes of transport. This holiday is filled with so much excitement, everyone has something to talk and laugh about, planes are full, hotels and lodges are fully booked, airports, train stations and bus terminus are super busy, space is scarce and congestion is all over. It’s that time of the year, it’s December!

If you’ve travelled enough, chances are that you’ve encountered at least one of the first class passengers in the economy class. The first class section was generally designed, for the elite clan. The business class is usually made up of high quality, traditionally purchased by business travellers (sometimes called executive class) Economy Class (also known as coach class or travel class), basic accommodation, commonly purchased by leisure travellers.

I have spoken to travellers from the three sections before and many of them seem not to understand travel etiquette or somehow think it doesn’t apply to them.

In your case, never let prejudices and stereotyping tempt you to miss important life lessons. Formal schooling may come to end but learning and development never do.

In my years of travelling, I have used various modes of transport, if not all, and as usual, I will never tire to travel, the experiences have been amazing. But I have observed a few “first class” passengers and their practices have reminded me to share with you a few etiquette tips on travelling.

Don’t hog seats

Travel etiquette is a double edged sword and few travellers know how to handle and use the sword well. There isn’t much room on a plane, bus or train, the seat back is the only cushion separating us in these cramped quarters, and they’re getting slimmer all the time.

Be kind and leave the seat next to you open so that someone else can sit. Too often I see people placing their luggage or newspapers on empty seats, even as the boarding area is filled up and other passengers are left standing.

When you yank on the seat in front of you to stand up or reposition, you are rocking the world of whoever is sitting in it. Cranking your seat back into the lap of the person behind you will win you no in-flight friends (especially during meal time).

Yes, you might argue that you have the right to recline, but wouldn’t it be nice to look behind you before you do it? First class passengers are considerate; give that traveller behind you who is working on a computer a chance to close his laptop before your seat crushes it.

Always cling to your personal space

I have been in the etiquette trade for some time now, and everyday feels like I am just beginning. It is a race in the jungle of life, and I always play to win.

Most of you have been sickened and frustrated by bus, train and plane sleepers. Sitting next to a fellow passenger does not make the two of you cuddle buddies.

If you’re a plane sleeper, it may be a good idea to invest in one of those neck pillows so you don’t find yourself cuddled up with the person next to you. Early morning and red-eye flights are tough, and a good nap helps pass the time nicely.

While we’re on the same topic, please keep your legs, arms and luggage inside your designated seat area for the remainder of your journey. A golden secret of today, use the space under the seat in front of you.

Nonetheless, a hand held during takeoff is totally acceptable, but a flight or bus ride isn’t the time to “Netflix and chill” with your spouse while pretending to watch the tiny TV in front of you. If I can hear your argument over my music, it means you’re too loud.

Why you shouldn’t drink when travelling

Regardless of the class you will travel in this holiday, practising these drills will enhance your reputation and how other passengers and attendants perceive you.

On the contrary, it’s the opportunity to set an example and teach them a better way. Treating a journey with respect often isn’t about what you do; it’s what you don’t do.

After all, a cocktail can be a fun way to start a vacation a little early or relax after a long travel day. Elevation really does lower your tolerance, but who wants to arrive at their destination with a hangover?

Taking all sorts of toxic beverages and yelling at the attendant will not distinguish you from the rest of the economy class.

Self-regulate your manners

When sharing air in a confined space, it’s more important to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you need a tissue, ask around or grab one from the lavatory. Whatever you do, just ask me for one instead of using your sleeve, please!!

Likewise, no one wants to smell your feet on a seven-hour bus ride or a twelve-hour flight so please keep your shoes on. Your toes will have plenty of time to be free on a sandy beach. Additionally, I don’t think it’s necessary to bathe in your favourite cologne before your journey. As a rule of thumb, stick to one spritz before you jet set. Let people in front of you get off first.

Remember, things go more smoothly when we all work together. Do your part by planning ahead and being as different as possible. Be as accommodating to others as you can, if you see someone struggling to take down luggage from the overhead bin – help them out. We know travelling can sometimes be stressful, but being kind and helpful to your fellow flyers goes a long way.

It is therefore apt to wish you all happy holidays and memorable safe travels.

-Justice Simango is business etiquette and grooming consultant who writes in his own capacity. He is a member of Toastmasters International. Feedback: [email protected] < Whatsapp: +263 717 566 382