Flight attendant reveals her elbow rest strategy when sitting in the middle seat of a plane
A SAVVY flight attendant has shared a smart tactic for people who are sandwiched between two armrest-hogging neighbours.
A survey revealed that armrest hogging was ranked as one of the most unpleasant onboard practices by over a third of customers using UK carriers.
Mary, a flight attendant for a major American airline, offered advice on how to get back that coveted armrest space, particularly when she’s stuck in a job transfer between two people and can’t choose her seat.
Mary revealed to BBC News that she frequently finds herself seated in the middle, between two people who usually take up both armrests. These people are usually men.
She acknowledged that she had to “tussle with elbows” to get an armrest, but she also disclosed her own plan for taking back the area.
Mary’s resolution? She explained that she waited until they reached for a drink and took the armrest, demonstrating patience and timing.
A guy persisted in trying to press my arm, so I had to tell him, “We’re not doing that today.”
William Hanson, a writer and etiquette coach, also recommended a mindset to have while travelling to avoid any tension.
According to the expert, people should get used to the idea of sharing “elbow rests” rather than armrests.
It comes after another flight attendant revealed the packable item she swears by on a flight.
Although blankets are sometimes provided by airlines, Lori Thompson said it’s always worth taking your own.
She said: “I have always had a packable blanket with me for those chilly flights.
“These are nice to have in case there is not a blanket available.”
Lori, who works for Delta Air Lines, also recommended taking a portable mini humidifier.
She told Thrillist: “Our hotel rooms can be rather dry, and after traveling a mini humidifier adds much needed moisture to the air.
“This item is small and all you need is a glass or bottle of water.
“Feel free to add a drop or two of essential oils to freshen the air.”
Meanwhile, other travelling experts also revealed their plane essentials.
Ben Whatman, who works for Air New Zealand, suggested a specific spot treatment – the Origins Super Spot Remover.
He said: “This is an absolute miracle product, I swear by this!
“I always keep one in my cabin bag—if I see a little spot or pimple appear, this will get rid of it in no time at all.”
The jet-setter also recommended the Kiehl’s Lip Balm, to combat dehydrated lips on long-haul flights.