Former Flight Attendant Reveals Insider Secrets How to Avoid Lost Luggage and Other Tips

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When your luggage goes missing during a flight, the frustration can be overwhelming. But according to a former flight attendant, you might be making a simple mistake that increases the likelihood of your bags getting lost. In a viral TikTok video, Elizabeth, who claims to be a former Delta Airlines stewardess, shares some crucial advice for travelers: always remove old baggage tags before checking in your luggage. 

 

"The reason some bags get lost is because you didn’t remove old baggage tags," Elizabeth explains to her audience of over 11.7 million viewers. "Always remember to take old tags off if you don’t want your luggage to get lost." This simple yet often overlooked step can make a big difference in ensuring your belongings reach your destination safely.

 

 

But Elizabeth doesn't stop at luggage tips; she dives into a range of other airline secrets, including some that might make you think twice about your in-flight beverage choices. One of her more alarming revelations concerns the cleanliness of airplane ice and hot beverages. "Don’t ever order airplane ice," she warns. "The ice on the airplane is contaminated with bacteria and E. coli." She adds that the ice often comes into contact with unsanitary surfaces, including the bathroom, and that the scoop used to handle the ice is rarely cleaned.

 

Similarly, she advises passengers to avoid drinking hot coffee or tea on flights. "The pot of water is never replaced and grows mold," Elizabeth claims. "Just stick to water." This revelation might be shocking to frequent flyers who rely on a hot cup of coffee to start their journey, but it’s worth considering if you want to avoid any potential health risks.

 

Elizabeth also offers some practical advice for those looking to enjoy a more pleasant flight experience. For example, she suggests that dressing nicely can lead to special treatment from flight attendants. "We notice how passengers are dressed, and you’re more likely to get an upgrade or a free drink if you look presentable — never wear sweatpants and a hoodie," she advises. So, if you’re hoping to score a little extra comfort on your next flight, it might be worth putting in a bit more effort with your outfit.

 

In addition, she shares a tip that could earn you even more special treatment: giving a small gift to the flight crew. "We aren’t allowed to accept tips," Elizabeth notes, "but if you wrote us a nice note with a small gift (like a bag of candy), you’re also likely to get some special treatment."

 

For those who get hungry during a flight, Elizabeth has a simple piece of advice: just ask for more snacks. "You’re not only limited to one snack — we will give you a handful of them," she says. This is a good reminder that being polite and asking for what you need can go a long way in making your flight more enjoyable.

 

Elizabeth also stresses the importance of keeping your shoes on when using the airplane lavatory. "Do not take your shoes or socks off when using the lavatory," she cautions. "We think it’s so gross because we see what happens in there." Given the limited space and high traffic in airplane bathrooms, this tip is a no-brainer for maintaining hygiene during your flight.

 

Finally, Elizabeth shares a money-saving tip for booking flights: always clear your search history when looking for cheap tickets. "The cheapest flights are always on Tuesdays," she advises. Clearing your search history can help prevent airlines from tracking your search patterns and potentially raising prices based on your activity.

 

Elizabeth’s insider tips offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of air travel, revealing both the perks and the pitfalls that passengers might not be aware of. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your first flight, these practical pieces of advice can help ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey.

 

Credit: NYP  2024-08-18

 

 

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