Fights can be an arduous experience, particularly for those who find themselves squashed in a small economy seat for a long period of time. It’s no wonder then that regular fliers are coming up with their own ways of boosting the inflight experience.
It seems that packing one simple item could be the key to elevating your journey and benefitting from a few extra perks.
In fact, one traveller even suggests passengers can enjoy royal-style treatment if they remember to bring a particular item on board.
Travellers shared their top tips for a better flight to Reddit, with one stating that the key to a more comfortable journey is simply a box of chocolates.
However, while indulging on the chocolatey treat may sound nice, the idea is not to eat them, but to give them away.
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The traveller explains: “Bring an unopened bag of or box of chocolates for the flight crew, especially long flights…they’ll treat you like a king for the whole flight.”
Indeed, simply handing a box of chocolates to the crew as a thank you could be the treat to a little extra star treatment.
While flight attendants are usually not allowed to accept cash tips from passengers, a box of chocolates to share amongst the team can boost their experience as well as yours.
Corey Cadwell, spokesperson for Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) told USA Today: “Passengers should not tip flight attendants because flight attendants should not accept tips.
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“As professionals, as first responders, just like police and firefighters, a flight attendant’s first mission is to maintain the safety and security of passengers in the cabin.
“There are other ways that are much more beneficial when it comes to thanking them.”
Another traveller added: “My mum is a flight attendant. When I fly on standby, which is for free, I always bring chocolates.
“It makes their day and they will always be extra nice to you on the flight.”
It isn’t just chocolates that flight attendants appreciate, though.
Something as simple as an old magazine can also brighten their day.
“If you give us flight attendants your magazines, we will love you,” one cabin crew member admitted.
“Unless some airline has a policy that I’ve never heard of, they will gratefully accept them.
“Some might read them, some might offer them to other passengers, some might say no thanks. But you will always be highly regarded.
“If you’re finished with one, try to give it during the flight right after the service is finished (this is when we take our breaks during the day and will also allow you to be fully appreciated as the Magazine Giver the rest of the flight).
“You can say ‘Sir’ or ‘Miss’ as they walk by, or if the lavatory is next to the galley you can approach them there if the seatbelt sign is off.
“But if you prefer to wait until after while you’re deplaning, this is fine too.”
Of course, cabin crew will always provide service with a smile, regardless of gifts, so you should never feel obligated.
However, bringing a little treat is a nice idea if you simply want to do a good deed or show your appreciation for their service.
