air travel

Qantas’ Travel Insider’s network has shared their top tips for packing ‘smartly’, including how to properly select and pack one essential item you are sure to need on every holiday

A group of Travel Insider writers for Qantas have divulged their best jet-setting secrets and name one space-sucking item you should avoid packing. Dubbed the “biggest space enemy”, this common travel essential should be packed in wisely and sparingly.

Qantas’ network of travel experts shared their space-saving packing hacks to help you fly like a pro. One of the key insights shared by an expert is to “only pack three pairs of shoes” at the most.

“Shoes are my biggest space enemy when it comes to packing efficiently,” shared the expert. But they provided excellent advice about which three types of shoes you should limit yourself to when packing.

READ MORE: Cabin crew horror as flight attendant shares one ‘pre-used’ item given to flyers

“I always try to apply the rule of three: one pair for going out, one pair of flats for day and one pair of running shoes for walking around and exercise (I’m usually wearing sneakers on the plane, which I can then wear day or night).”

The Travel Insider network shared a whole host of other exceptional tips to keep top of mind next time you’re packing. Another key tip was to keep your shoes in shower caps when travelling.

“Enclosing your shoes in the one–use plastic shower caps that are complimentary in most hotel rooms prevents the often–dirty soles making contact with your garments. Plus, they’re not as bulky or inflexible as shoe bags” advised one writer.

Other great tips include saving skincare samples to ensure a full suite of products on any trip – that stay within liquid and weight limits. As well as lining the edge of your baggage with your belts as opposed to rolling them up which takes more valuable space. Qantas’ travel experts also remind air travellers to pack “smartly” for easy access to essential items.

“Keep all the items you know you’ll want for the flight – tablet, headphones, wrap, passport, pen – in a separate pouch inside your carry–on bag. It’s easy to grab before you stow your bigger bag in the overhead locker and not only means you can settle into your seat faster but stops you having to get up and down to retrieve things you may have forgotten.”

If you struggle to decide what items deserve pride of place in your hand luggage, the experts at Flash Pack have you covered. The social travel platform has created an extensive list of the key items you should keep in your hand luggage.

Apart from your passport and travel documents, Flash Pack advises passengers to always travel with a spare pair of socks and underwear in their hand luggage to ‘prepare for the worst’.

Full checklist for carry-on essentials by Flash Pack

• Passport
• Portable charger
• Jewellry and other valuables
• Headphones
• Wash bag packed with all the essentials (toothbrush, face wipes, deodorant, etc.)
• Essential medications
• Refillable water bottle
• Socks & underwear
• Chewing gum or sweets
• Entertainment (book, magazine, tablet)
• Eye mask
• Ear plugs
• Neck pillow
• Compression socks
• Blanket
• Hand sanitiser

A flight attendant has revealed the secret reason why cabin crew will greet passengers on the plane – and it’s not just because they’re being polite

If you’ve ever taken a flight, you’ll know that the cabin crew greet passengers upon their entry into the aircraft.

While it may have seemed like nothing more than a polite gesture up until now, a flight attendant has revealed the real reason behind the friendly greeting. Ioana Iachim, a flight attendant working for Wizz Air has confessed there’s a hidden meaning behind a cabin crew member’s affable hello during boarding.

Taking to TikTok to share some of her insider secrets, Ioana revealed: “Did you know that your flight attendant greets you not only out of politeness but also, to check whether or not you are too drunk or sick to fly.”

Presumably, cabin crew then keep an eye on passengers they believe could stir up trouble or may not be fit to fly, and might even prevent them from boarding. Ioana’s video currently has over 3.5 million views and over 190k likes.

READ MORE: Cabin crew horror as flight attendant shares one ‘pre-used’ item given to flyersREAD MORE: Flight attendant reveals first thing crew do in an emergency at 30,000ft

Several travellers were shocked at Ioana’s revelation, with one writing: “And I thought they fancied me.” Another TikTok user commented on the video: “I never greet them back because I am an introvert.” One added: “So why do I always sit next to people hacking up a lung and nobody does anything.” Ioana’s hack isn’t the only flight attendant secret that has been revealed in recent times.

As a flight attendant for the past 22 years, Sue Fogwell has warned fliers against ordering a Bloody Mary while in the skies. While speaking to Travel + Leisure, Sue shared that giving the Bloody Mary a miss is probably wise. The cabin crew member said: “Due to the very high sodium content, I always avoid drinking Mr&Mrs T/bloody mary mix and tomato juice.”

This is because drinks and foods that have a high sodium content can dehydrate passengers fairly quickly, especially on long-haul flights. What’s more, the vodka in a classic Bloody Mary has also been identified as a dehydrator, with the NHS advising fliers to limit their alcohol consumption while on an aircraft.

In another instance, ex-flight attendant and viral TikTok sensation, Kat Kamalani, shared some unnerving truths about the state of an aircraft’s water tanks. She warned: “Don’t you ever, ever, ever consume these products from an airplane, from a flight attendant! Rule number one never consume any liquid that is not in a can or a bottle.”

She went on to claim that “those water tanks are never cleaned and they are disgusting”. In fact, cabin crew themselves won’t touch hot drinks. She explained: “We rarely rarely drink the coffee or tea. They come from the same water tank. And so when you’re drinking that coffee and tea come from that hot water and it’s absolutely disgusting.”

Do you have a story to tell us? Email us at [email protected].

The easyJet flight from Cyprus to Bristol was forced to land in Turkey due to the smell of smoke on the aircraft, with one passenger revealing the ‘mayhem’ it caused on board

A passenger on an easyJet flight, which was forced to make an emergency landing due to the smell of smoke, has recounted his harrowing ordeal, revealing that he and his fellow travellers “thought that they were going to die.”

The easyJet service, flying from Paphos, Cyprus, to Bristol Airport on Saturday (June 14), had to make an unscheduled descent into Izmir, Turkey, just an hour and 20 minutes after takeoff.

Jamie Shorland, returning from a trip to see his grandfather in Cyprus with a friend, was aboard when the smoke alarms went off. He described how the crew’s lack of communication likely added to the ensuing chaos.

The 21-year-old Exeter resident detailed that the plane, already behind schedule by half an hour, finally left the ground at 10:30 p.m. It was while soaring over the Turkish coast that Jamie sensed trouble brewing. Jamie said: “The air cabin crew were told to put away the catering trolleys, whilst we were told no information at all, then we were told to brace for an emergency landing.”

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He continued: “We were above the water so we thought we’d crash into the sea, there was pure panic and none of the crew were helpful. I thought to myself ‘this is how it ends’, people were screaming ‘we are going to die!'”.

“One father rushed up the plane to hug his kids and the airline staff told him to go back to his seat. He told them to ‘f**k off, if I am going to die I am going to be with my kids.'”

Speaking to BristolLive, Jamie described the terrifying moment their aircraft suddenly veered off course, executing a gut-wrenching 180-degree turn towards Turkey, with passengers experiencing the sensation of the plane flying sideways before it dramatically dropped 15,000ft.

“I saw cabin crew crying at the back of the plane thinking they were going to die, however the plane flew into Izmir and landed at the airport,” Jamie said. “It was a traumatic experience, I genuinely thought I was going to die. I was trying to think happy thoughts of my family as we fell through the sky.”

He recounted the disorder that ensued: “It was a load of mayhem, the plane had no lights and it was a scary time.”

Passengers made to wait half an hour as firefighters stormed plane

Further tension followed after the emergency landing as passengers were made to wait onboard for half an hour amidst confusion, while firefighters swarmed the aircraft.

In the midst of uncertainty after landing, Jamie watched as emergency crews accompanied the plane until it came to a full stop, resulting in firefighters storming the laneway.

Passengers remained in limbo, confined within the aircraft without sufficient information. After a tense 20 minutes, they gradually learned that the ordeal might be linked to a fault with the cooling system.

Following the incident, EasyJet confirmed that accommodations were arranged for all affected travellers, spreading them across three hotels. Jamie was briefed on the arrangements, being told he could remain at the hotel until 6pm on Sunday in anticipation of the rescheduled 10pm flight.

Jamie recounted the mayhem that ensued at their hotel, with all guests being asked to leave suddenly at noon, resulting in a prolonged wait at the airport for a flight that was further delayed until 11pm.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Jamie expressed his apprehension about flying again: “I did not want to leave Izmir, I thought ‘I might not make it’.”

Airline criticised over lack of response

EasyJet was heavily criticised for their poor communication during the disruption.

Jamie reported difficulty in getting information from easyJet, saying the airline wasn’t helpful: “They’ve been no help at all, the pilot [of the initial flight] even made a joke after landing telling everyone to buy a lottery ticket because ‘we got lucky’, I couldn’t believe it.”

After the delayed take-off, the flight landed at Bristol Airport at 12.30am on Monday, with Jamie arriving in Exeter just before 3am.

He described the ordeal’s impact on his companion, stating: “It was my friend’s first time flying in 12 years. We will never get on a plane again, I’ve never been so scared of flying, it was the worst experience of my life.”

EasyJet released an official statement on Saturday, June 15: “We can confirm that flight EZY2902 from Paphos to Bristol diverted to Izmir due to a technical issue which resulted in a smoke smell onboard.

“The aircraft landed safely in Izmir and was met by emergency services as a routine and precautionary measure only.

“All passengers disembarked as normal into the terminal and were provided with hotel accommodation and meals where required. Passengers will continue to Bristol on a replacement aircraft later today.”

The carrier emphasised its commitment to safety: “The safety of our customers and crew is easyJet’s highest priority and easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers’ guidelines.

“We would like to thank customers for their understanding and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

For those wanting a picturesque location without committing to a long-haul flight, Croatia might be the perfect solution

A popular beach praised for its turquoise sea and white sand is just hours away from the UK. For holidaymakers wanting a picturesque location without committing to a long-haul flight, Croatia might be the perfect solution.

Just a three-hour flight from the UK, Croatia is known for its white sand, turquoise seas, car-free islands and dramatic cliffside coves. According to rental experts Villsy.com, Croatia offers all the beauty of the Maldives without the long-haul journey.

Croatian coastal bathing areas, according to the European Environment Agency’s report, are the cleanest in Europe. Tamed by its 1,244 islands, the Croatian sea is also very calm.

Toni Hrelja, founder of Villsy.com, shared a local’s guide to Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, including hidden gems where the “crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery rival the Maldives.” Among them is Sakarun beach on Dugi Otok island.

According to Toni, Sakarun beach “stuns” with its shallow turquoise sea and white sand mixed with smooth pebbles. The beach features a “calm lagoon with a wide sheltered bay”, which offers the shade of the pine trees.

The beach is located on Dugi Otok, an elongated island with small, peaceful villages. The island is home to only 1,500 people, and a huge nature spot Telašćica Nature Park.

On TripAdvisor, the beach is described as a “hidden gem”, “a magical place” and a “pearl of sand.” It has been given a 3.5 rating overall.

One reviewer said: “Sakarun is the most beautiful beach I have ever been. Crystal clear turquoise water, light sand, amazing view.”

A second wrote: “One of the most beautiful beaches you can find in Croatia! It’s worth spending at least a day there. We left Zadar with a tour that included a transfer with a fast catamaran (we arrived on the island in an hour) then they took us to the beach by coach!

“Wonderful. You have to walk a little to reach the bus and then to reach the beach but it’s worth it. I recommend reaching the pine forest at the end of the beach to settle in the shade. There are a couple of bars, a small shop selling beach supplies and some chemical toilets that are generally clean. There are no showers.”

Another added: “Carribean sea in Croatia. Far away the most beautiful beach in Croatia. Difficult to reach, the best way is by boat. A nice sandy beach with clear blue water.”

Toni added: “Due to the island being remote, the beach isn’t crowded, even in the peak season, but it takes an effort to reach it.” There are direct flights from London, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Liverpool and Bournemouth to Zadar.

From Zadar there are two ways to reach the island – either to take the ferry to Brbinj (1:45) or a passenger catamaran to Božava (1:20). If you don’t have a car to drive around the island, there’s a tourist train from Božava to Sakarun that goes every two hours.

While air passengers are allowed to carry alcoholic drinks into the cabins of most UK airlines, there are strict rules surrounding quantity, type and consumption

Travellers are widely banned from consuming their own alcohol on-board a flight, but they are allowed to bring sealed bottles into the cabin.

There’s a whole host of restrictions travellers need to be aware of, and flicking open a can of beer or popping open a bottle of wine, unless you’ve bought it from a flight attendant, is strictly prohibited on all airlines.

It’s more than likely you’ve bought a discounted bottle of your favourite tipple at the duty-free shop in the departures lounge, but you will need to wait until you land to enjoy it responsibly.

We’ve rounded up the rules you need to be aware of on some of the UK’s most popular carriers.

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Ryanair

Ryanair allows passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.

Additionally, alcohol with an ABV of more than 70% (140% proof) is not permitted onto the aircraft either through carry-on luggage or in your checked-in baggage.

If you wish to drink onboard, duty-free purchases of tobacco and alcohol may also be available on all flights to the EU from non-EU member states.

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Jet2

Jet2 explicitly states that passengers may not bring alcohol on board their carriers for the purposes of consumption whilst on the aircraft, with the brand reminding passengers that it is an offence to be drunk on any aircraft.

Only alcoholic drinks purchases on board can be consumed during the flight, but the airline reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to passengers at their absolute discretion.

Jet2 also states that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.

British Airways

When it comes to the carry of alcohol into the cabin, British Airways says there is no limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you can travel with as long as their alcohol volume is below 24%. Though consumption of your own alcoholic beverages onboard is prohibited.

Still, you can carry up to five litres of alcohol with an ABV between 24% and 70%. This can travel in your cabin bag if you purchased it in the airport duty-free shop. Drinks above 70% alcohol volume are not permitted on board any British Airways aircraft in either checked baggage or hand baggage.

TUI

TUI passengers are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into the cabin with some stipulations. Alcoholic beverages containing more than 24% but no more than 70% ABV are permitted in checked baggage and carry-on baggage.

The beverages need to be in retail packaging and be no more than five litres per individual receptacle, with no more than five litres total net quantity per person for such beverages.

easyJet

easyJet passengers are permitted to bring alcohol bought in the airside departure lounge into the cabin, as long as it’s unopened. Alcohol must be lower than 70% abv, and packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag.

It’s strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution.

Being drunk on a flight: The rules

Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary has more recently spoken out about drunk passengers causing mayhem on-board, after binge-drinking in the airport before getting onto the plane. In some heated incidents, brawls have erupted and cabin crew members have been assaulted.

He has called for a two-drink maximum restriction at airport bars to clamp down on this issue, which is not just confined to the budget airline. In the UK, it’s a criminal offence to board an aircraft while drunk, or to be drunk while on-board.

Fines of up to £5,000 can be slapped on offending passengers with up to two years in prison. Drunk customers who cause chaos mid-flight could face a huge £80,000 bill to cover the airline’s costs if it is forced to divert.

Travel Supermarket says: “The law also gives cabin crew significant authority. They have the right to refuse to serve alcohol to any passenger and if they believe someone is drunk, they can take measures to restrain them if necessary.”

This small airport in Scotland has been listed as one of the best in Europe by the Airport Service Quality Awards – one of only two UK airports recognised across all categories this year

In an era of flashy global airports boasting waterfalls and amusement parks that put Heathrow to shame, there is one small UK airport that is a consistent star.

This tiny airport in Scotland has been named one of the best in Europe for the past five years running, in fact. Inverness Airport has been recognised once again by the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. Inverness was listed among the top six airports in Europe which service under two million passengers annually.

Airports Council International determines the best airports based on a survey measuring passenger satisfaction. The awards recognises airports with the top 20 percent overall satisfaction score – organised by size and region.

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Inverness was among six European airports recognised in its section, the only airport in the category in the UK. In fact, the Scottish airport was the only hub in the category not based in Spain.

The only other UK airport included in the awards was Newcastle International Airport in the two to five million passengers per year category.

Inverness Airport’s exemplary staff also received recognition from the Airports Council International. The airport won another ASQ award for having some of the most dedicated airport staff in Europe – for the third year in a row.

Graeme Bell, General Manager of Inverness Airport, said: “To win these awards for the fifth consecutive year is an incredible achievement and a proud moment for everyone involved with Inverness Airport.

“Being recognised for the third year running as the Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff in Europe as well is a testament to the hard work, passion, and commitment of our entire team,” Bell continued.

Inverness Airport is located nine miles east of Inverness city centre and is a key transport hub for the Highlands and Islands. The airport hosts carriers including Loganair, TUI, KLM, easyJet and British Airways. It offers routes to the likes of London, Majorca, Belfast and the Outer Hebrides.

If you interested in experiencing the exceptional customer service first-hand, you might want to consider a festive trip to Finland later this year. Inverness Airport will host a one-day trip to Lapland on December 13, 2025.

Passengers will depart from Inverness in the morning and return the same day, experiencing husky rides and ice skating in Lapland in-between.

2024 ASQ Award winners for European airports servicing under two million annual passengers:

• El Hierro Airport (Valverde, Spain)
• Girona-Costa Brava Airport (Costa Brava, Spain)
• Inverness Airport (Inverness, United Kingdom)
• Pamplona Airport (Pamplona, Spain)
• Reus Airport (Reus, Spain)
• Zaragoza Airport (Zaragoza, Spain)

A poll of 2,000 adults who have been on holiday in the past 12 months found more than six in 10 will complete a series of tasks to get everything ‘in order’ before they leave.

Holidaymakers have revealed the top 30 tasks they undertake before every trip, and it’s quite a lengthy list. It includes getting a fresh haircut for the holiday, obsessively checking the weather forecast, and organising care for their plants. Other key pre-holiday activities include doing a large laundry load, packing an abundance of snacks ‘just in case’, and changing the bedsheets so they’re fresh upon return.

Repacking their luggage multiple times, purchasing new underwear, and repeatedly worrying about whether they’ve packed their passport also feature on the list. Many holiday makers also make sure their tablets and e-readers are loaded up with films, books or podcasts.

According to the poll, those who do any preparation ahead of a holiday will spend an average of seven-and-a-half hours doing so, with over a third saying they actively enjoy it.

Many people have even taken time off work specifically to get everything sorted before their holiday. This is particularly common among younger adults, with 77% of Gen Z and Millennials confessing they have taken time off for holiday preparations.

Millennials are found to spend the most time preparing for a holiday, averaging nine hours and 14 minutes. Women typically take seven hours and 57 minutes to get ready, while men spend six hours and 59 minutes on preparation.

Can you spot the beach holiday essentials in this image? Hidden away in the busy beach scene are 10 items many of us need to remember to take with us abroad. Can you find them all?

Zoe Fidler of lastminute.com, who organised the study, commented: “Between work, childcare, DIY projects and endless life admin, actually booking a holiday often ends up as a last-minute task – bringing with it the stress of wondering if you’ve missed out on the best deals.”

The study revealed that 54% consider themselves to be someone who gets everything sorted well in advance of a trip. However, 25% tend to overpack ‘massively’ and 21% leave at least some of their pre-getaway prep to the last minute.

Interestingly, 23% selflessly prioritise the needs of others over their own when preparing for a holiday.

Zoe added: “We know that preparing for a holiday can be time consuming, stressful and expensive – but worth it in the end, which is why we commissioned this research to fully understand what Brits need from their summer getaway.

“We firmly believe it’s never too late to book a getaway and our booking data shows this happens more often than you think.”

TOP 30 HOLIDAY PREPARATION TASKS:

1. Secure travel documents in one place
2. Purchase sun cream/after sun
3. Exchange currency or order travel money
4. Check passport/visa requirements and renew if needed
5. Pack any prescription medication and travel health kit
6. Make a packing checklist
7. Clean out the fridge
8. Secure the house
9. Get your hair cut
10. Read reviews
11. Clean the whole house
12. Buy medicines/tablets
13. Charge every possible device and pack two portable chargers
14. Arrange pet care
15. Buy travel-sized toiletries
16. Do a big pre-holiday clothes wash
17. Repeatedly worry whether you’ve packed your passport
18. Weigh their suitcases multiple times
19. Change the bedsheets
20. Obsessively check the weather at your destination
21. Research health precautions (e.g. vaccinations, water safety)
22. Load your tablet or e-reader with movies, books, or podcasts
23. Pack a “just in case” kit with mini sewing kits, painkillers, duct tape, and safety pins
24. Take pictures of your passport and insurance
25. Pack lots of snacks “just in case”
26. Buy new underwear
27. Download offline maps/apps
28. Decide at the last second to pack several more items
29. Arrange plant care
30. Pack, unpack, and pack again

There are a few things that people facing airport security will want to ditch when planning their outfit

Millions of people will pass through airports across the UK this summer for long-awaited breaks in sunnier places. But, people heading abroad can make one part of the travel process simpler by choosing to leave some items at home.

TikTok user and frequent flyer Melanie (@comehangout_melanie) said that there are four items that might “cause you to get held up by security.” When getting to the plane can often seem to take hours, people will want to avoid making these wardrobe mistakes that could extend the process even further.

The first, and most obvious one, is not to wear anything metallic, if possible. It’s a standard part of airport security around the world for travellers to pass through a metal detector. If it detects any sort of metal object, staff will pull you aside and complete extra safety checks.

These sensitive devices are designed to be triggered by hazardous items, but can just as easily flag something innocent you’ve forgotten to remove, like jewellery, hairpins or loose coins in your pocket. Melanie added that it can be “a pain”, so if it can be avoided, it’ll speed up the whole process.

Melanie also advises against wearing specific shoes if they are hard to take on and off. She explained: “Most airport security, not all, will make you take your shoes off. There is nowhere to sit to take them off or to put them back on. If people are in a rush, you are gonna have a very annoyed line of people behind you if you’re taking a long time to get your shoes off.”

In some UK airports, you may be asked to remove your shoes at security, particularly if the metal detector is triggered. This is a standard security procedure to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.

Certain clothes might be comfy for a long flight, but Melanie claimed there are some you should leave at home – or at least keep in your suitcase. They might cause issues with security checks or attract unwanted attention.

She said: “Don’t wear clothing with a lot of pockets or details on it—that includes cargo pants. There are a lot of zippers on those, which could be an issue, but if you actually store things in all of those pockets, it can be difficult to remember to take them all out. If you are in line and having to dig through all of your different pockets to clear them all out, that’s a no-no!”

Baggy clothes —such as “pants, shirts and even flowy dresses”—were also highlighted as something to avoid. Melaine claimed that these outfit options were “far more likely to lead to a pat down” than more fitted clothing, suggesting that baggy items might be used for “hiding things underneath them.”

What to expect at airport security in the UK

Several steps need to happen before airport staff can let you head off on holiday. According to the GOV.UK website, the safety checks include having your boarding pass ready for inspection—your passport is not required at security.

If you are taking liquids in your hand luggage, containers must hold no more than 100ml. Passengers should put appropriate-sized liquids into a clear resealable plastic bag which holds no more than 1 litre and measures about 20cm x 20cm.

Take the plastic bag out of your hand luggage while queuing, ready to put it in the security tray. Remember that liquids may include items such as make-up, toiletries and hand sanitisers.

Empty your pockets, take off your coat, watch, and belt, and remove other metal items when you near the front of the queue so you’re ready to put them in the trays. You may be asked to remove your shoes, other clothing items, or jewellery before going through the security archway or scanner. Electrical items such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and hair straighteners should be removed from hand luggage to go through X-ray machines separately.

No one wants to be delayed, or for their flight to be suddenly cancelled, but in such ‘worst case’ events travel experts urge passengers to store two items in their hand luggage

Travellers have been urged to pack two essential items people nearly always put into their suitcase instead.

The team at Flash Pack, the social travel platform, has created an extensive list of the key items you should keep in your hand luggage. Apart from your passport and travel documents, there are two basic but noteworthy items they think you should be adding to your carry-on bag.

These are a pair of socks and spare pair of underwear. Flash Pack writes: “While nobody wants their hold luggage to be delayed, we always prefer to live by the old adage of ‘prepare for the worst, hope for the best.’ Hedge your bets and pack an extra pair of socks and underwear in your carry-on.”

An change of socks and underwear can also come in hand if your flight has been significantly delayed or diverted unexpectedly. While some airports have showers you can use, switching out these items can be a small relief after a gruelling travel day.

READ MORE: UK airline copying Ryanair with strict hand luggage allowance rules

The hand luggage checklist also notes that passengers may want to have noise-cancelling headphones and a blanket on hand. Both of these items are must-packs for germaphobes as its now common knowledge that airlines repackage and redistribute these items.

While the checklist advises passengers to pack a portable charger in their hand luggage, you should double check the guidelines of your airline before doing this. That’s because recent incidents have led many airlines to enforce stricter regulations around the carry of power banks.

The extra precautions stem from the fact that power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are known to be highly flammable and difficult to extinguish. South Korea’s transport ministry’s initial investigation of the Air Busan incident even found a scorched power bank in an overhead luggage compartment where the fire was first observed.

Essential medications should also always been packed in your hand luggage. Again, travellers should double-check their airline’s specific guidelines around the carry of liquid medications as you may be asked to present a prescription or note from a healthcare professional.

One final noteworthy item you will want to carry is a reusable water bottle, which can be filled up before boarding. Flight attendants have disclosed that the hot water provided on planes may not be the most sanitary so you should come prepared with your own aqua.

Full checklist for carry-on essentials from Flash Pack:

• Passport
• Portable charger
• Jewellry and other valuables
• Headphones
• Wash bag packed with all the essentials (toothbrush, face wipes, deodorant, etc.)
• Essential medications
• Refillable water bottle
• Socks & underwear
• Chewing gum or sweets
• Entertainment (book, magazine, tablet)
• Eye mask
• Ear plugs
• Neck pillow
• Compression socks
• Blanket
• Hand sanitiser

Poland will be taking the throne as the biggest – and busiest – airport in Europe with its expansion, the Solidarity Transport Hub, offering a smoother travel to major cities in the country and beyond

Warsaw Solidarity Airport in Poland has a confirmed year for its complete construction: 2032. It’s set to welcome millions of passengers a year and is planning to overtake London Heathrow Airport and Dubai International Airport’s size and capacity.

As reported by the Construction Briefing, it will be able to handle 40 million passengers per year. The airport will become the largest airport in the country and one of the largest in Europe, with plans to expand its capacity to 100 million passengers annually.

Located 24 miles outside Warsaw, the construction will begin in 2026, with the first phase of the construction opening up to the public by 2032. Interestingly, Warsaw Solidarity Airport was built to replace Warsaw Chopin Airport since it was reaching its capacity of 20 million passengers.

Not only that, the airport is planning to expand even more by adding two 3.8km runways, which will be 2.5km apart, to accommodate simultaneous take-offs and landings. A third runway is also being considered for the future.

READ MORE: I was a check-in agent and this is how you can get a flight upgrade – but there’s a catch

A new gateway to Europe

The Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), also known as the Solidarity Transport Hub is a multi-billion euro project planned by the Polish government and other investors, involving building passenger terminal railway stations and transport hubs. It aims to make it much easier for locals and visitors to get around.

Opening its first phase in 2027, the central terminal will be used as a major transportation hub, which will be directly connected by air travel with a high-speed rail station and a regional bus terminal, providing a much more comfortable transfer between air, rail and road transport.

The CPK’s ‘Y-line’ will be connected to a high-speed rail network, making it much faster and more convenient for people to travel between major cities in Poland, including Warsaw, Lódz, Wroclaw and Poznan with an average journey time of 40 minutes.

Over 1,800 km of high-speed rail lines are planned, connecting to over 10 major metropolitan areas. There are also other plans to turn it into an international transport hub with connections to Western Europe, the Baltics, and the Balkans.

Speaking to Notes from Poland, Foster + Partner’s Grant Brooker explained: “Our ambition is to create an accessible building that will improve the travel experience. We believe CPK will completely change the way people travel around Poland and will also become a new gateway to Europe and the rest of the world.”

READ MORE: 10 medical conditions you must declare to travel insurer when going on holiday

Economic impact: +150,000 new jobs

The Solidarity Transport Hub isn’t only an infrastructure project, but also a major economic initiative. The project is expected to create up to 150,000 new jobs, which will contribtue significantly to Poland’s economy. According to the Solidarity Transport Hub’s site, it will also provide exhibitions, conference facilities and offices.

The estimated cost of the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny project is approximately PLN 131.7 billion, which converted to British Pounds, is £25 billion. This also includes an additional £8 billion for airport construction.

With Poland’s airline, LOT, being one of the biggest beneficiaries, the hub is expected to make Poland the new “travel capital” in Europe by becoming a central gateway for international air travel and transfer points between East and West.

They have warned that your accommodation may no longer be suitable

The Foreign Office has updated its Greece travel advice page. On June 6, and still current today, the Government issued an alert under its safety and security page.

In one of the first updates, it warns people that where they plan to stay may not be suitable. In addition, it also warns that your insurance may not be good enough, urging people to double-check what their cover includes.

Here is what you need to know.

Staying overnight in Greece?

If you are set to stay in Greece overnight – regardless of how long – you need to ensure you are allowed to stay where you are planning on sleeping. This comes as Greece has implemented regulations which bans people from camping in tents and parking trailers, semi-trailers, camper vans, and motorhomes near archaeological sites, on seashores and beaches, at the edges of public forests, and in other public spaces. The Foreign Office UK urges people that in order to avoid fines, you should only stay at licensed campsites.

Doing any activities on holiday?

Urging people to be cautious, under their hiking and exploring nature sub-section, they warn: “Take extra care when planning a hike or walk, especially during higher temperatures than you are used to. Trails often lack shade and the quality of route markings can vary.”

Ensure that you:

• plan your route beforehand, and consider your limitations in distance and difficulty
• check weather forecasts and avoid hiking during the peak hours of sun; pack a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water
• wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain and consider taking a map, GPS and a fully charged phone
• avoid hiking alone if you can, and always tell someone where you are going and the route you will take

They also urge that you never “light fires”. This is because not only is it “dangerous”, they also note it is “illegal due to the high risk of wildfires.”

UK Foreign Office urges people to do this when taking out travel insurance

If you have yet to take out travel insurance, you will need to ensure you are covered for a few things. The Foreign Office urges people to look out for coverage that includes “mountain rescue service and helicopter evacuation.” Remember, if an accident happens or if you become lost, call 112 for the emergency services.

Flight attendants are seen multiple times walking on the aisle. Other than serving foods and drinks, there’s one important task they must complete during the flight.

Being a flight attendant has lots of perks, such as travelling around the world. Still, it’s a tough job with a lot of responsibilities, especially for the passenger’s safety.

That said, there’s one important task all flight attendants must regularly complete throughout the flight. Have you ever wondered why flight attendants walk the aisle on certain occasions and even multiple times – even when most of the cabin is asleep? They’re not just stretching their legs, they are actually completing vital safety checks.

From serving drinks and meals, answering questions, offering duty-free, and going through pre-flight checks, cabin crew members are also tasked with being incredibly alert. This means no snoozing on the job, unless it’s a long-haul flight where attendants are designated periods of rest.

READ MORE: British Airways bans cabin crew from taking certain photos on layovers

Whether it’s a short or long flight, safety is the number one priority when flying. As explained on Go Opti’s website, the crew completes a mandatory check every 30 minutes to see if passengers need any assistance or anything that should be reported.

This check also applies at night, when all the lights are off and passengers are asleep. The website says: “Even if the passengers are sleeping, the cabin crew must keep checking that all is well. They will look for anything unusual and scan the passengers and the cabin. The flight crew must be checked upon every 30 minutes to make sure that they are ok and to see if they need anything.”

And their safety first policy doesn’t just come into play mid-flight, they are expected to see every passenger as they get on-board. During boarding, the cabin crew is responsible for identifying passengers who might be able to assist in the event of an emergency, along with anyone who may be unfit to fly. When seeing passengers get off, the crew has to ensure no one – or their belongings – are left behind.

READ MORE: ‘I’m a flight attendant and there’s some serious downsides to the job’

Flight attendant training

On average, flight attendant safety training can last four and six weeks, including real-life scenarios and practical exercises. Walking on the aisle is just one of them.

The exact frequency varies depending on the flight duration. Nonetheless, whether it’s a one-hour or a 16-hour journey, flight attendants will always be alert to keep everyone onboard safe.

Next time, don’t be surprised when you see the cabin crew walking on the aisle. Whether they’re serving food and drinks or swapping areas with their colleagues, they’re also checking out for your safety and at your disposal whenever you need their assistance.

Passengers may think they’re ahead of the game by bringing their own food and drink onto the plane – but not every airline is so lax when it comes to allowing consumption on-board

Most UK airlines allow passengers to carry food in both their hand luggage and checked baggage, though it is the quantity that may vary.

If you are planning to bring food into an aeroplane for consumption at your end destination, you should also keep in mind the customs regulations for the country you are visiting, as they all differ. Every passenger will have their hand luggage screened by security ahead of boarding – and it is here that people carrying specific items may be pulled up on what they’ve packed.

See below for a list of some of the most popular UK carriers and what they say about bringing food on-board a flight.

READ MORE: Ryanair travel rules for Brits visiting Spain, Greece, France or Portugal this summer

Ryanair

Ryanair permits passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.

Baby food is subject to more lenient liquid rules. Ryanair mandates that if you are travelling with an infant (8 days-2 years), there is no limit to the amount of baby milk, powdered milk, sterilised water and baby food you can bring onboard. Additionally, baby food does not need to be placed in transparent plastic bags like other liquids.

easyJet

Yes, easyJet passengers can bring food into the cabin. However, when it comes to liquid foods, the carrier’s 100ml limit on liquids and gels still applies. That means large quantities of soups and custards are not permitted.

Only alcohol bought in the airport departure lounge and unopened can be brought into the cabin. It must also be lower than 70% abv and stored in either your cabin bag or an airport shopping bag. Passengers are forbidden from drinking their own purchased alcohol on board and can face prosecution for doing so.

Baby food, sterilised water and milk are the only exceptions to the 100mL liquid maximum. However, easyJet warns there is still a 2L maximum and you may be asked to taste the food for security purposes.

British Airways

The British Airways website states that passengers: “Can take solid foods like sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, nuts, etc. into the cabin but the same restrictions for liquids apply to liquid foods, e.g. drinks, soups, sauces, jam or jelly.”

The carrier also warns passengers to verse themselves in the restrictions of the country that are travelling to and from. “The country of your destination may restrict the types of food allowed into the country, e.g. meat, fresh fruit and vegetables are forbidden by many countries.”

TUI

TUI passengers are permitted to bring food into the cabin, but the airline advises passengers to pack “low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.” This is because refrigerators and microwaves are not available for passenger use. That said, flight crews are able to warm milk bottles for infants in hot water as needed.

Jet2

Jet2 does not clearly outline its hand luggage restrictions when it comes to food. However, the airline does state that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.

Jet2 also doesn’t allow hot drinks or hot food on their planes. It also says you cannot bring food onboard if it’s not allowed by the laws of the country you’re flying from, to, or over.

Ryanair states that there are “different rules for different destinations” when it comes to travel documents. That said, we’ve outlined the travel guidance for the most popular summer destinations.

Each summer, thousands of Brits board Ryanair flights seeking sun and surf in nearby countries. While many travellers are determined as ever to enjoy a European holiday, there are a few travel rules that should be kept top of mind to ensure a smooth journey.

Ryanair has outlined the travel dos and don’ts for holiday hotspots like France, Portugal, Spain, and Greece. Under the travel documents portion of its FAQs, Ryanair reminds passengers: “There are different rules for different destinations, so please be sure to check these before you travel.

“To streamline your travel experience and maintain a record of the necessary visa documentation, we are introducing an optional feature to upload the required visa documentation during the check-in process via our app. This will demonstrate that you carried the correct documents at the time of departure, to avoid fines or criminal penalties for travelling without the required documents.”

Spain

Ryanair confirmed on its website that: “depending on your nationality and flight destination, a visa may be required to travel.” That said, according to the UK government’s latest guidance, those with a full British citizen passport from the UK can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

READ MORE: Brits warned as popular Spanish island ramps up border security with huge change

Greece

When it comes to travel to Greece, Ryanair’s statement about visas still applies – it depends on your nationality and flight destination. But given that Greece is also part of the Schengen area, those with a full British passport will also be able to travel without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

That said, even if you are visiting multiple countries, the UK government website advises that: “your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days.

“It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’,” the website confirms. Additionally, if you are considering adding on a trip to Cyprus on your Greece journey, remember that Cyprus is not in the Schengen area.

That said, the UK government confirms that British passport holders can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in Cyprus without a visa. More importantly, any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in Cyprus.

France

France, also being part of the Schengen region, does not require British passport holders to travel with a visa for stays under 90 days. Though keep in mind that non-EU passport holders travelling to the Schengen area are obliged to ensure that their passport is valid for at least 3 months from the date of their departure from the Schengen member country, according to the UK government website. Though this requirement does not apply to holders of a Schengen issued residence permit or long-term visas.

The ‘date of issue’ on your passport must also be less than 10 years before the date you arrive. These three-month and 10-year rules apply for all travel to the Schengen area.

Portugal

Those flying to Portugal this summer via Ryanair are reminded again that entry is permitted for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa.

Portugal follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area (the expiry date does not need to be within 10 years of the date of issue).

How to work out if your stay is within the 90-day limit

1. Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.
2. Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.
3. Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).
4. Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.
5. Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

A warning has been issued that there are a number of items that tourists should avoid packing in their hand luggage – with certain goods potentially causing accidents

As Brits prepare for their summer holidays, a warning has been issued about what not to pack in your hand luggage. Hand luggage is often used to store valuables or items needed on the flight, but the company advises travellers to be cautious about what they include.

Firstly, Fulton Umbrellas warns holidaymakers to be mindful when packing electronic items with lithium ion batteries. While rules can vary between airlines, generally only electronics with batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh should be packed in hand luggage. The firm also advises ensuring all devices are fully charged and switched off before being stowed away.

READ MORE: Luxury hotel offering Elemis spa treatment with a free £101 beauty gift

Fulton Umbrellas also urges travellers to think carefully about the food they pack in their carry-on cases, reports the Express. While many people take food home or snack on the plane, items like jams, soft cheese and chutneys could be seized as they count towards the 100ml limit on liquids.

Furthermore, different countries have additional restrictions on certain types of food, so it’s crucial to research banned items before travelling to avoid disappointment and confiscation.

Finally, the company suggests passengers should steer clear of packing certain types of umbrella in their hand luggage, depending on their size.

While there are generally no restrictions on carrying a brolly in your hand luggage, larger ‘golf-style’ umbrellas could pose a risk, especially when packed in soft cases.

Instead, holidaymakers are advised to stow these larger umbrellas in their checked luggage, freeing up more space for other items in their carry-on bag.

In addition, Fulton Umbrellas has issued a warning to those fitness enthusiasts who plan to maintain their regimen while on holiday, advising them to reconsider packing protein powders in their bags.

Although not explicitly prohibited by airlines, these powders can obscure the view on X-ray machines, hiding items that are placed behind them.

Consequently, travellers who opt to pack protein powders in their hand luggage may find themselves spending extra time at security, as staff will likely need to manually inspect the case.

A new TikTok travel hack has seen holidaymakers being refused onboard their flight, and it’s all to do with how they’re packing their luggage

When it comes to jet-setting, there are specific rules and regulations we must adhere to at the airport, particularly regarding what you can pack and how much is permitted in the UK. However, a recent TikTok trend has resulted in travellers being denied boarding.

The ‘travel packing’ trend has seen a whopping 402 per cent increase in Google searches over the past month alone. Travel packing involves holidaymakers seeking innovative ways to maximise their luggage space – a necessity as budget airlines continue to tighten their baggage allowances. Nonetheless, holiday provider Travel Republic has unveiled some top travel hacks that won’t land you in hot water at the airport this summer.

READ MORE: Doctor tells Brit dad to ‘carry on’ as he loses two stone in two months with one change

So, what’s this TikTok travel hack all about? In 2023, the ‘pillow hack’ was making waves on social media, reports the Express. This crafty trick involved passengers stuffing an empty pillowcase or neck pillow with extra clothes to dodge paying for an additional bag for clothing.

TikToker, @natashaorganic, recently posted a video showing the hack spectacularly backfiring, which has amassed 2.8 million views and nearly 300,000 likes.

The footage depicts a passenger looking rather disgruntled after staff at Orlando International Airport informed them they needed to pay for extra baggage for their pillowcase full of clothes.

This resulted in a dispute with the airport staff, and as the passenger failed to comply with their request, they were subsequently denied boarding and escorted from the gate by airport police.

No traveller would want to invest all that time, money, and effort only to be informed that they cannot board their flight.

Kate Staniforth, head of marketing at Travel Republic, commented: “Whilst many TikTok users have claimed this hack works, unfortunately, this is not always the case and you can be caught out.

“It’s down to the discretion of the airline staff, meaning you could be left with a choice between paying for additional luggage or leaving your items behind.

“You don’t want to risk the enjoyment of going on holiday and having to either leave your possessions or pay for additional luggage at the airport as it is nearly always cheaper to pay for baggage in advance.”

Holidaymakers are being advised to follow some straightforward steps to ensure their suitcase is the first off the carousel upon landing – allowing them to start their holiday as soon as possible

For those keen on jetting off without a hitch, travellers are getting savvy tips to ensure their bags emerge first on the baggage carousel, offering more time for holiday fun. While showing up at the airport with time to spare is common advice, a surprising twist suggests checking in for your flight at the eleventh hour could be beneficial.

The late check-in method, as detailed by Escape.com, posits that latecomers’ luggage typically ends up being loaded last and subsequently arrives first after landing. Thomas Lo Sciuto, an employee at a regional US airport, shared insider knowledge on Quora claiming: “Bags will always be loaded front to back on the bag carts so if you check in last your bags will be in the last bag cart.”

READ MORE: Doctor tells Brit dad to ‘carry on’ as he loses two stone in two months with one change

Despite its potential perks, the ‘last in, first out’ principle might not sit well with early birds, earning it the tag of a “high-risk strategy”.

Upscale flyers and frequent travellers can dodge this gamble by shelling out extra to guarantee a front-of-the-line spot for their bags, sometimes even enjoying the luxury of a dedicated baggage carousel.

And for a sneaky edge, news.com.au has let slip that simply slapping a “fragile” sticker on your luggage could fast-track your retreat from the airport, hinting that such labels affect how it’s stowed beneath you during your flight.

Luggage labelled as fragile is usually loaded last, which means it’s the first to be offloaded, cutting down your wait time at that dreaded carousel, reports the Express.

It’s also a good idea to remove any old tags from your bags and opt for distinctive luggage to spot them easily upon arrival.

If your luggage stands out, there’s also a smaller chance of another passenger mistakenly taking it for their own.

Airport security rules can be confusing for many travellers with liquid restrictions in place at many flight hubs – but there is one common food item that is banned

Airport shops are hitting passengers in the pocket by charging up to a staggering 48 per cent more for snacks and drinks compared to high street prices. In a move away from complimentary in-flight refreshments, British Airways is one of the airlines now asking customers to splash out on food during short-haul journeys with their paid-for menu options.

But be advised, packing certain common food items might land you in hot water at security checks, potentially leading to a search or even confiscation of your beloved nibbles. Whilst some UK airports have started updating their security measures, the liquid restrictions linger stubbornly across numerous global terminals.

READ MORE: Doctor tells Brit dad to ‘carry on’ as he loses two stone in two months with one change

The official guidance on the UK Government’s website currently states: “If you do take liquids in your hand luggage containers must hold no more than 100ml.

“Containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm and contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed.”

Beware, traveller: while it’s widely known that water and beverages are part of the liquid restrictions, many are unaware that certain foods, including hummus, also qualify under this category due to their consistency, reports the Express.

It’s not just the popular chickpea spread either; other favourites like guacamole and salsa are similarly subjected to these stringent security stipulations.

A travel guru from Ski Vertigo has issued a warning to holidaymakers: “Certain food items, especially those that are liquid or gel-like, such as peanut butter, jam, or yoghurt, are subject to the liquids rule.

“Solid foods generally pass through security without issues, but any food that can be spread, squirted, or poured may be confiscated if it exceeds the allowed liquid limits. Food items can also trigger additional screening if they appear suspicious on the X-ray.”

Despite some UK airports adopting cutting-edge CT scanners that could see the end of the current liquid restrictions, many still lag behind in this tech upgrade.

Even if you’re flying out from a UK airport equipped with these new scanners, remember that numerous international airports continue to enforce the traditional liquid regulations.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Passengers should continue to check security requirements with their departure airport before travelling.”

So, for now, it’s wise for travellers to stick to the established liquid guidelines until further notice, as there’s no confirmed date for when the rules will be universally relaxed.

When you board a plane, you’ll always step onto the aircraft from the left – and it turns out there is a very good reason for this – and it’s all to do with ships and boats

As we gear up for the summer holiday rush and prepare to soak up the sun, there’s a curious constant in our plane-boarding experience that might have escaped your notice. Whether you’re buzzing with excitement or grappling with pre-flight jitters, you’ve probably never pondered why you always board an aircraft from the left-hand side.

Despite the leaps in aviation technology, the boarding process has remained steadfastly the same, and Michael Oakley, managing editor of The Aviation Historian, has shed light on this intriguing tradition. Originally, commercial aircraft featured passenger doors on the left due to historical practices, but today it’s all about operational efficiency.

READ MORE: ‘I made one change to my meals and lost weight, felt fuller and cut down my caffeine’

Speaking to Afar, Michael revealed: “Much of aviation terminology had its origins in maritime lore (rudder, cockpit, cabin, bulkhead, knots, etc), and similarly, the aeronautical ways of doing things owe a lot to sailing.”

He further explained: “Just as boats and ships have a port side – the side of the vessel conventionally adjacent to the dock when in port – aircraft are the same. Sensibly, people decided to continue to board on the port (or left) side.”

Boats were traditionally designed with the steering oar on the right side (starboard), leading to passengers and cargo being loaded onto the opposite side.

This practice was carried over to aircraft until United Airlines in the 1930s and 40s decided to place their doors on the right. However, as air travel became more popular, it proved more efficient for everyone to board planes from the same side using the same terminals.

“Since the pilot sits on the left, airports began to be built with gates on the left so the pilot could better judge distances as they taxied to the gate,’ explained Matthew Burchette, senior curator at the Museum of Flight in Tukwila, Washington.

He added: “As soon as more complex airports were developed, with passengers using Jetways as a means of walking directly aboard from the terminal, ground operations were a lot easier if every aircraft did the same thing in the same direction.”

This arrangement also makes life easier for airport ground staff, who can work on the right-hand side away from passengers, while passengers are kept clear of any machinery.

A woman has shared her anger after being confronted by a tall man who told her she should give up her extra legroom seat because it’s ‘not her fault he is tall’

A woman who booked a premium seat for a 12-hour flight took to Reddit to share her experience after she was asked to swap seats mid-flight. The passenger, who had reserved her plane seats ‘months in advance’, recounted: “At the time of booking I paid extra to choose my seats.

“The seat I chose was $55 extra and right at the front of the plane (trying to arrive somewhere on time upon landing). The seat also happened to be an extra legroom seat and I am a 4’11 female.” Initially, everything went smoothly as she checked in, boarded, and settled into her seat, but things took a turn when “the seatbelt sign was switched off” and a man approached her requesting to “change seats”.

READ MORE: Natalie Portman’s makeup artist takes anti-ageing gadget ‘on every job’ to shrink wrinkles

Although initially open to the idea, she quickly declined upon realising his seat “was way in the back of the plane”. She firmly “told him no sorry” and justified her refusal by stating that she’d paid extra to “sit up front”.

The situation escalated as the man grew increasingly agitated and refused to leave, arguing that “there’s no reason someone of my height needs extra legroom (I told him I paid to be upfront).

“I suggested that he ask the other people in those seats if they could swap but he refused saying that he wouldn’t want to bother other men or split up couples.”

The woman recounted how the man turned “rude and angry”, prompting her to summon a flight attendant who instructed him to take his seat. She said: “For the rest of the flight he would walk past for no reason slamming into me (I was sitting aisle).”

She finished her tale by seeking opinions from fellow Reddit users on whether she was at fault and if she should have conceded her seat to him.

Reddit users didn’t hesitate to weigh in on her story, with a number of commenters affirming that she had done nothing wrong and was entitled to stay in her pre-paid seat.

One commenter explained: “So my brother is 6’6″. You know what he does when he has to fly? He makes sure to get an emergency exit row or whatever row has the extra leg room.”

He usually has to pay for it. Any tall person with an ounce of common sense knows they have to do this for flights.

“This tall guy knows he needs more leg room but tried to dodge the extra fee by asking someone to switch. OP was completely justified in refusing ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY PAID EXTRA and the tall person has no right to be a nuisance about it.”

A second chimed in, saying: “Tall person here. If I want more leg room, I can pay for it like everyone else. I don’t pay for the cheapest seat possible and then try to get someone shorter to give me the more expensive seat that they purchased for free.”

And a third added their thoughts: “He is tall, he’s been tall all of his life. He knew flying was a hardship on him and he didn’t wanna spend the extra money and he became an abusive bully to a single female when he didn’t get his way.

“You should’ve reported him and he should’ve been removed from the flight or you should’ve been compensated for your seat. A grown man felt he was entitled for you to give him what he wanted. You were an easy target because you were alone and he didn’t get his way and he harassed you the entire flight.”