by Christopher H. Stevens

Created on: October 07, 2008

From the very first days that man gathered his belongings and headed to parts unknown, getting there has always been the challenge that lies between two points. From prehistoric times, when two strong, though decidedly poorly manicured feet where the mainstay of the trek, to the middle ages, when one could simply hop aboard a boat and brave the unknown dangers of the sea, to modern times with its convenience of high speed trains and jumbo jets, one's behavior toward his fellow travelers has always been an issue.

Almost all methods of travel throughout the ages have had their share of rules, or etiquette, developed to ensure a safe and pleasant trip for all travelers. In the days of foot travel, for instance, it was considered an insult to a fellow traveler to relieve oneself in view of others. In the middle ages, sea travelers were often thrown overboard for even the simplest of infractions, such as cutting into the buffet line, or yelling "Iceberg Ahead!" when there was in fact no iceberg in sight. While the latter was sometimes excused in the Caribbean waters, it was frowned upon in the North Atlantic.

Perhaps no method of travel brings with it such a magnitude of rules, regulations, and expectations as modern day air travel. It seems that cramming one hundred or more people into a metal tube with wings, and leaving them there for unknown lengths of time induces the most baffling behavior in what may otherwise be sane people. On the other hand, they may have been mentally unstable before boarding the aircraft and climbing over you to get to the window seat. In either case, it is up to you to behave in a manner that will save you from being the target of other passengers' disdain. Furthermore, it is important to follow all rules set forth by the airline, and obey the instructions of all crew members and especially flight attendants, who have been known to withhold peanuts and soda from unruly passengers.

Navigating the rules, regulations, and expectations of an air traveler may seem over whelming, however following the ten key points outlines below will help to ensure a smooth flight for all.

1. Start at Home. Pack your bags correctly, and follow the procedures for number of bags, carry-ons, and the weight restrictions set forth by your carrier. Resist the urge to bring everything thing you own just because "you may need it when you get there." There will most likely be a pool table near your destination, so leave those types of large items at home.

2. If you have

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>