8 Flight Mistakes Pilots Always See Passengers Make-and What to Do Instead

"If anyone knows what truly makes or breaks a flight, it's the people up front-like way up front. Indeed, it's pilots who watch hundreds of passengers board every week, spotting the same preventable travel mistakes over and over, from packing mishaps to midair meltdowns. Airline first officer and private jet aircraft manager Captain Curt Marker has seen it all, and he says small adjustments can make the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth one."

"Running out of battery mid-flight means missing entertainment and the chance to use apps that help manage nervousness or track turbulence. Even seasoned travelers underestimate how quickly streaming and Bluetooth drain a phone or tablet at 35,000 feet. A portable power bank, like this Anker device that's compact and has a built-in USB-C charging cable, keeps your gear alive from the gate to baggage claim."

Pilots notice recurring preventable travel mistakes such as uncharged devices, reliance on inflight Wi‑Fi, and inadequate comfort items that worsen anxiety. Carrying a compact power bank with USB‑C preserves device battery life when seat outlets fail. Downloading movies, shows, and podcasts onto tablets or phones ensures entertainment without unreliable Wi‑Fi. Noise‑canceling headphones and other comfort accessories reduce stress and drown out disruptive sounds. Small preparedness steps—portable chargers, preloaded content, and comfort gear—help nervous fliers and frequent travelers stay calm, comfortable, and prepared from boarding through baggage claim.

Read at Travel + Leisure