{
  "id": 8934220,
  "title": "I'm a former flight attendant. Here are 8 things I do every time I fly as a passenger.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/21/im-a-former-flight-attendant-here-are-8-things-i-do-every-time-i-fly",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-21T13:59:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-on-plane-former-flight-attendant-tips-2026-9"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "For years, I worked as a flight attendant, and there are certain habits I still follow when I'm a passenger on a plane. Beth Windsor, who has over a decade of experience in the industry, shares her top eight tips for a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience.\n\nBeth always books a window seat, as it offers a sense of privacy and comfort. She avoids sitting by the restroom or bulkhead, as these areas can be noisy and busy. Instead, she changes into cozy loungewear on the plane and packs hotel slippers to wear during her flight. These slippers help her feel comfortable during the journey, and she changes into them as soon as she enters the bathroom.\n\nWhen it comes to seating, Beth chooses a window seat for its privacy and coziness. She avoids aisle seats to protect her elbows from the carts and people passing by. She also steers clear of bulkhead seats, where babies often sit due to the bassinets. Beth believes in looking polished while boarding, so she gets dressed in her best outfit and makeup before boarding the plane. However, once on board, she changes into her loungewear for comfort.\n\nTo ensure she stays comfortable throughout the flight, Beth brings lightweight, layered clothing made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics. She also packs hotel slippers from her hotel stays. Beth emphasizes the importance of wearing slippers in the bathroom and on the plane, as she never goes into a restroom without them. The slippers can be easily discarded after the flight.\n\nCounting the rows from the nearest exit is a habit Beth developed during her years as a flight attendant. This skill can prove invaluable in an emergency, helping her navigate the cabin to safety. Beth also brings her own food and drinks on the plane, opting for simple meals like airport sushi and healthy snacks. She avoids alcohol and focuses on staying hydrated with water and electrolytes.\n\nBeth's skincare routine is an essential part of her travel preparation. She applies a hydration sheet mask, under-eye gel patches, moisturizer, and SPF 50 to combat the effects of flying on her skin. For shorter flights, she focuses on a nourishing facial moisturizer, vitamin-C serum, and SPF 50. She avoids using the call bell unless it's a medical emergency, as flight attendants are often busy and dealing with stressful situations.",
  "summary": "A former flight attendant shares the best things she does on planes now that she flies as a passenger, from wearing slippers to booking window seats.",
  "key_points": [
    "Beth Windsor, former flight attendant, recommends booking a window seat for privacy.",
    "She avoids aisle seats, bulkhead, and restroom areas for a comfortable journey.",
    "Beth brings hotel slippers to wear during the flight and in the bathroom for comfort."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}