Flight Attendants Share Insider Info Every Passenger Should Know (ES)

Did you know 2.9 million people fly in and out of the US every day? That’s a lot of people taking to the sky, with plenty having their own flying hacks to make life easier. However, we might have been overlooking one of the most valuable sources of information this entire time: flight attendants.

That’s right; these people fly across the world every day and have often learned a thing or two in their time. Perhaps that’s why so many flight attendants share insider info every passenger should know? Sometimes, we need experts to make things even better.

1. One of the best secrets from flight attendants is to use a flat iron as an iron

When it comes to flight attendants and their insider knowledge, it seems they know a lot about travel - and that doesn’t end when the plane lands. Traveling so much means they have also picked up a few travel hacks along the way, including how to keep our clothes neat and tidy without taking too many items.

If you want to keep your clothes ironed but don’t want to pack one, it might be time to invest in some flat irons. This is great if you already plan on taking one for your trip. Merely set it to a low heat and go over anything that needs to be ironed, and you’re good to go!

2. Don’t fly if you have a cold - and not because it might make other people sick

There are plenty of reasons that we shouldn’t fly when we’re sick, including how we don’t want to be the one to pass it on to other passengers. However, one of the best-kept secrets from flight attendants is that flying while we’re sick with something like a cold could actually cause more damage than it’s worth.

Having blocked sinuses can also mean there’s excess pressure in our ears, and flying is only likely to make this worse. From losing our hearing to a burst eardrum and everything in between, the changing pressure of flying could cause a severe amount of damage to our ears if we decide to board the plane while sick.

3. One of the big secrets is how much is hidden on boarding passes

Many of us probably grab our boarding pass and don’t pay too much attention to all the fine details. In fact, some of it can be pretty tough to understand even if we try. It turns out there’s a lot of information hidden on our boarding passes to act as codes for flight attendants from any airline.

The first two letters in our flight number are code for which airline we’re using, while the rest of the numbers indicate the direction we’re heading. Even numbers allegedly fly west, and odd numbers hear south. To top it off, the six characters are a reference to our passenger record or booking reference that can be used to research passengers.

4. Flights might be delayed because the cabin crew needs to stop for food

Have you ever had one of those moments when you’re ready to board the plane only to find out your flight has been delayed? There are a host of reasons this might be, but one of the best-kept secrets hidden by flight attendants is it could be something as simple as the cabin crew wanting to eat food before takeoff.

That’s right; working such long hours means the break between flights could only be long enough to walk from one terminal to another. If that’s the case, you might find your flight is delayed for a moment or two while the crew grabs something to eat before taking the air once more. Of course, it’s not always the case.

5. Flight attendants share that we should think twice before drinking water on a plane

Perhaps you want to save a few dollars on the expensive food and drink on offer on the plane, so opt for some water instead? You’re not alone - but you might want to think twice before chugging water. At least, that’s what some flight attendants claim, as they say it might not be as safe as it sounds.

While the water must be safe to drink before it can be served, some flight attendants claim that the tanks used to store water aren’t usually thoroughly cleaned as they’re so tricky to disinfect. Instead, it can be full of bacteria, meaning water, tea, and coffee could all be infected. Thankfully, the ice isn’t made onboard the plane.

6. It’s suggested we should all drink a bottle of water before boarding

So what are you meant to do when it comes to drinking water on a flight? Flight attendants have plenty of secrets to staying hydrated while in the air, such as drinking a bottle of water before you board the plane. Of course, be sure to visit the restroom, too, just in case your plane is delayed taking off.

Drinking a bottle of water should help passengers combat the low humidity onboard planes that can often cause dehydration. Plus, planes usually serve salty and sugary food and drink, which can lead to bloating if we haven’t had enough water to drink. It’s a simple flying tip, but one that could come in helpful for multiple reasons.

7. A good idea for keeping hotel rooms dark is to use a pants hanger

When it comes to secrets flight attendants have up their sleeves, it seems many also have tips about how to enjoy your vacation once you’re off the plane. Of course, getting to your new destination is just the beginning. So what if you want to ensure you get a good night’s sleep to make the most of your trip?

Plenty of hotels have questionable drapes that usually don’t block out all the light - or they have blackout drapes that don’t actually close. Thankfully, flight attendants reveal you merely need one of the hotel’s pant hangers to clip the two drapes together. We think they probably know what they’re talking about, thanks to all their layovers.

8. Cabin crews aren’t allowed to party on layovers if they’re flying again soon

If you’ve been thinking about a career change and want to work as a flight attendant to travel the world and enjoy parties in every timezone, then you might want to think again. That’s because one of the biggest secrets flight attendants keep is they’re not allowed to go hard or go home while abroad.

That is if they’re flying within eight hours. Federal regulations mean they’re not allowed to drink within so many hours of flying, with many losing their jobs if they turn up feeling the effects of the night before. Shawn Kathleen, a former flight attendant, also told the New York Post that tests for drink and illegal substances are pretty common.

9. Drinking your own drink on the plane could result in someone being arrested

It turns out that when it comes to drinking on flights, there might be more rules than many of us ever realized. There are plenty of rules about what you can and can’t bring on an airplane, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re allowed to consume your drink onboard because you get it through security.

One of the biggest secrets kept by flight attendants is that drinking your own drink might be enough to have someone arrested in the US. At the least, you might be removed from the flight. While you can buy drinks at the airport, flight attendants are there to serve drink to know when someone needs to be cut off

10. Wiping air vents before use should help to keep us healthier

Plenty of passengers need to cool off throughout the flight. Even if we’re jetting off somewhere cold, there’s a chance the plane could heat up a little too much when we’re stuck in one place for so long. However, flight attendants share that you might want to think about cleaning the air vents before blasting cool air.

This should help remove any build-up of dirt, dust, and germs from previous flights. Plus, many flight attendants recommend pointing your air vent toward your lap instead of your face to try and avoid breathing in any airborne illnesses. The reality? It might be best to avoid using the air vent at all if you can.

11. Flight attendants say we shouldn't forget to wipe the tray tables either

When it comes to the number of things we need to keep clean on a plane, it could be time to add tray tables to the list. Several flight attendants' secrets include how clean the plane really is, especially as they might not be thoroughly disinfected between each flight. Even if they are, the same rag could be used everywhere.

If you want to use your tray table, then it's best to disinfect it with a wipe before touching it if possible. Even something as simple as someone placing a tissue on the tray could be enough to leave germs for someone else. That's before getting to the fact some change babies or sit their travel dogs on the trays.

12. A travel tip is to find out if the hotel has a washer to help pack lighter

Plenty of people want to try and save as much room and weight in their baggage as possible, especially when it comes to sticking to the strict rules often enforced by airlines. Amazingly, some secrets from flight attendants could be all we need. One simple way to save space is to wear the same clothes more than once.

What if they get dirty or need freshening up? You might be able to do some laundry after all. All you need to do is call your hotel before traveling to see if they have a washer and dryer to use. If they do, you can pack fewer outfits and merely wash yours while away to save space.

13. There’s a good chance a flight attendant could deliver someone’s baby

Did you know there’s a chance a flight attendant could deliver a baby? While it’s not ideal to welcome a little one on a flight, pregnant passengers can rest easy knowing that they will at least be able to give birth if something were to happen. That’s because they are more than just people there to serve food and drink.

Flight attendants actually have to go through a host of training before they’re allowed to take to the sky, including learning about several medical emergencies that might occur. This typically means knowing how to stop nose bleeds, administering CPR, setting a broken bone until landing, and even how to deliver a baby safely. Who would have thought?

14. Flight attendants can be too short or tall to land the job

Long gone are the days of intense standards flight attendants had to stick to if they wanted the job. In the 1960s, women had to retire by 32, weigh no more than 130 pounds, and be at least five-foot-2-inches tall. Plus, they weren’t allowed to have children or get married, meaning most lasted just 18 months before they quit.

By the ‘70s, retirement ages were gone, with marriage restrictions scrapped the following decade. Although flight attendants still need to pass yearly training, most rules have gone. However, one that remains is being between five-foot-three-inches and six-foot-one-inch to ensure they can reach everything without hitting their head. They also have to be able to fit through the emergency exit window.

15. One of the best traveling secrets is to avoid changing money at the airport

Plenty of us want to save a few pennies here and there when it comes to heading on vacation. After all, it can quickly add up, with people averagely spending $1,145 on a vacation. What if some secrets shared by flight attendants could save us money and help us get the best deals while traveling?

One of the best ways to do that is to change up any money you need before you head off, as changing money at the airport usually offers some of the worst exchange rates, meaning we don’t get as much for our money. Be sure to research the best exchange rates and shop around to ensure you don’t fall victim.

16. A small neck massager can make all the difference when flying

While flying usually means we’re about to head somewhere exciting, the plane ride itself might not be the best part of our trip. That’s because the dry air teamed with the cramped conditions can leave many of us feeling a little more than uncomfortable by the time we land. Flying so frequently means flight attendants know a thing or two.

Rather than cope with a sore neck and stiff back by the time you land, why not take some advice from flight attendants? Many recommend investing in something like a neck massager, so you don’t feel the effects quite so much. This, teamed with some stretches you can do in your seat, should help avoid any discomfort.

17. Some flight attendants say we should roll our clothes instead of folding them

Packing a suitcase is something many of us either love or hate. While it can be great to think about all the places we're about to visit and choose all the clothes we might need, others can view it as a time-consuming chore. Thankfully, some packing hacks could be all we need to make things easier than ever.

One of the many secrets shared by flight attendants is to roll your clothes rather than fold them to give us more room in our case and hopefully avoid creases. Simply take whatever clothes you want to pack, fold them into a long strip, and roll them from top to bottom before packing them away.

18. Some flight attendant programs have intense entries that are harder than Ivy league schools

It can be easy to think landing a job as a flight attendant is simple. After all, if you can perform basic first aid and keep passengers happy, you're good, right? Sadly not. In fact, one of the many secrets kept by flight attendants is that getting the job can be harder than getting into an Ivy League school.

In 2010, Delta announced 1,000 openings and had more than 100,000 applications. Even Harvard's acceptance rate is higher than Delta's. While many flight attendants have a college degree, it's not necessarily a requirement. Instead, speaking two languages, previously working for another airline, or having customer service experience in another industry can boost your chances.

19. A hidden part of being a flight attendant is they can be fired for bizarre reasons

It turns out one of the best-kept secrets by flight attendants might be nothing about how to make our journey more enjoyable and all about the strict rules they often face behind the scenes. Thousands of people apply to take to the skies every year, but keeping the job might be one of the more challenging aspects of it all.

Flight attendants have a six-month probation, with something as simple as wearing your uniform incorrectly often enough to see them out. Others have also reported people getting fired for pretending to be fully qualified just to fly home for free or flying while sick. That’s right; flight attendants aren’t allowed to fly while they’re ill, even as a passenger.

20. Bring snacks with you for the plane to avoid paying for expensive meals

Airports often have a host of options for anyone looking to grab some food on the go. However, bringing snacks with you could save plenty of money in the long run, especially if you’re traveling with your family. That’s because food can often be overpriced and leave us still hungry, thanks to the small portions on offer.

Plus, many people might miss their flight if they end up enjoying a sit-down meal without paying attention to the flight board. Rather than risk it, bringing food with you could save money and time. Plus, it should mean you have snacks in case your plane is delayed, or anyone in your group has dietary restrictions.

21. A hidden secret while flying is to walk around the cabin every now and then

When it comes to secrets flight attendants don’t want us to know, there might be a reason they don’t want us walking around the cabin throughout our flight. Of course, being in such a small space means it’s usually not long before people start tripping over one another and getting in the way of the cabin crew.

However, there’s a reason walking around could be something we need to start doing: it can help alleviate any stiffness in our muscles and keep our blood flowing. Something as simple as walking every hour or so could be enough to reduce being uncomfortable and ward off swollen feet and blood clots we might develop along the way.

22. One of the secrets flight attendants try to hide is that emergency oxygen only lasts 15 minutes

Many of us don’t want to think about something bad happening during our flight. However, the oxygen masks falling doesn’t necessarily mean we’re going to lose our lives. So what do we need to know about them that flight attendants have been keeping secret all these years? For one, there’s not that much oxygen stored away.

In fact, HuffPost reports there’s only enough oxygen for everyone on board for 12 to 15 minutes. Still, don’t panic. It usually takes pilots far less time than that to drop to a safe altitude. Just be sure to listen to the flight attendants and fix your own mask in place before helping anyone else with theirs.

23. Flight attendants likely won’t admit they may have thought about who to save first

There are plenty of times we need to deal with flight attendants throughout the flight, including the moment we get on a plane. They are usually at the doors greeting every passenger and pointing people in the right direction. Now, it seems they might be doing something else, too. One flight attendant opened up to Vice about it all.

Here, she claimed that the flight attendants also use this time to size up the people they would save first if there was an emergency and often play a game with their coworkers throughout the flight. She added it can get boring spending so much time on a flight, and the flight attendants are often looking to pass the time.

24. Diet Coke is usually the most unpopular drinks for flight attendants

Have you ever found yourself wondering if someone else shares your tastes when it comes to your favorite drink? While it might not be a thought that passes through all of our minds, it turns out there are times our favorite might be someone else’s most hated in the world. According to some flight attendants, that’s Diet Coke.

The flight attendant secret isn’t because people don’t like the taste, but more about how long it takes to pour while flying. Many claim the fizz takes a particularly long time to settle when in the air, meaning pouring one Diet Coke takes as long as serving multiple other passengers. Apparently, some give up and merely hand over the can.

25. Flight attendants say we should never use the pocket on the back of the seat

If you're going to forget something on the plane after your flight, there's a good chance it's because it got left in the pocket on the back of the seat. It can be easy to slide something in here at the start of our plane journey and forget all about it hours later when we land.

This can be particularly frustrating if it's something important or expensive - such as our phone or laptop. Want to avoid losing your treasured items? Simply don't use the pocket in the back of the seat. Of course, there's also the worry you might find something else someone has left behind by delving too deep into the pocket.

26. A national gym chain could be all you need to stay fit while you’re away

There are plenty of ways we can keep on top of our health, even when we’re away from our everyday lives. It turns out one of the best-kept secrets from flight attendants is to invest in a national gym chain if you find yourself traveling the country on a regular basis. Why? They often have special deals.

This means you only need to pay for one gym membership, but you could have access to facilities across the nation. While this might not be at the top of everyone’s priority list, many of us want to stick to our normal routine or let off some steam after spending hours cramped into our plane seat.

27. The chimes during flights are a secret code used by flight attendants

If you've ever been on a plane, you might be used to hearing those chimes that go off every now and then. While it can be something like the seat belt signs going on and off, it could also be one of the many secrets flight attendants keep. Don't get too carried away; they're not always for anything exciting.

Qantas Airlines claims the chimes can be used as a way for flight attendants to communicate with everyone else on the plane. This means they could be telling people that turbulence has been spotted on the flight path or how many snacks are left. There's even the rare chance the captain is telling others there's been a change of route.

28. Flight attendants have no choice about what food they serve

One of the many things that flight attendants wish every passenger knew is they have no control over the food that’s supplied or if they run out. While they’re there to ensure every passenger gets from A to B with relative ease, they’re not the ones in control of the menu or ensuring there’s enough stock for people wanting extras.

One flight attendant spoke to Popsugar about it all, where they confessed it’s merely their job to turn up and serve whatever food they’re told. To top it off, they added that if there is no food left, then no one is getting any - and there’s nothing they can do. After all, they’re thousands of feet above the ground.

29. They'll always notice a couple getting too close on the plane

Plenty of people have their ultimate fantasies when it comes to what they get up to in the bedroom. One that seems to be on plenty of people's lists is joining the Mile High Club. While it might be tempting to see if you can get away with your adventure, you might want to think twice before getting carried away.

For one, using the bathroom might be one of the most unhygienic places on the plane. Then comes the fact that passengers and flight attendants can usually tell when something's happening. Even trying to get carried away in your seat often doesn't go undetected and could land you in a lot of trouble if the flight attendants find out.

30. One of the best ways to keep organized it so create a packing routine

One of the quickest ways to ensure you have everything you need for your vacation is to create a packing routine that you can use time and time again. Perhaps packing so often is why this is one of the best flight attendant secrets out there? After all, they usually know what they’re doing when it comes to jetting away.

Many say the best way to get started is to choose a bag you love - and that’s practical - and to put everything in the same place every time. Travel cubes can also be a great addition while having some staples to add to a wash bag can save plenty of time. Then, all you need to do is pack.

31. Flight attendants suggest we should get sun as soon as we land

Okay, this might be one of those secrets from flight attendants that only works if you land in the daytime, but it could be game-changing if you get to pull it off. That’s because there have been plenty of studies that show sunlight can help our bodies know when to wake up, as well as offering plenty of health benefits.

Even if you can’t get to the sun, getting outside can be one of the best things to do once you’ve landed. After all, we’ve just spent hours breathing in recycled air and have likely been cramped in our seats for longer than we would have liked. Getting outside and letting everything breathe could be all you need.

32. It is technically impossible for someone to lose their life during a flight

Did you know that it’s technically impossible for someone to lose their life during a flight? That doesn’t mean everyone makes it out the other side, but that also doesn’t mean we need to panic. Flight attendants are trained in how to deal with all kinds of medical emergencies, including those that could take someone’s life.

Sadly, their efforts might not sometimes be enough. So what happens? No one on a plane is qualified to declare the time that someone passes away, meaning they have to wait until they land and the medical professionals can take over. Only then will someone have technically passed away, even if they’ve been on the plane for hours.

33. There’s a chance someone will be left in their seat if they pass away

So what happens if someone loses their life on a flight? While it’s something most people want to avoid, it turns out there are some protocols in place to ensure every aspect is covered. For one, flight attendants need to ensure that everyone is kept calm and no one finds out that someone has passed away.

The BBC reports that the flight attendants will then use an empty row to lie the body down or merely strap them into their seat and cover them with blankets to make it look as though they’re sleeping. It might be no surprise this is one of the secrets flight attendants don’t want us to know.

34. Sneaking someone who’s lost their life onto planes is more common than it seems

Sneaking a loved one who’s lost their life onto a plane might sound like something from a movie, but it turns out that it happens more than many believe. That’s because moving a body can quickly get expensive, especially if it’s down to the funeral home to move the person, and they have no care for finding the cheapest deal.

This has led plenty of people to try and fly with their passed relatives, such as strapping them into a wheelchair to try and fool flight attendants. While they often don’t want this news to get out, most flight attendants admit they can spot as soon as someone is trying to get away with flying someone who shouldn’t be there.

35. Flight attendants say we should always be polite to check-in staff

There’s a good chance that most of us don’t want to spend the flight next to children who might be a little less than happy to spend hours on a plane. However, being rude to the check-in staff when you realize that you’re seated next to them usually isn’t the best way to go about things for multiple reasons.

Of course, it’s always best to be polite to people from all walks of life, including at the airport. Plus, being courteous to check-in staff is one of the best-kept flight attendant secrets, as they have the power to give us upgrades, move our seats, and even change our flights to one that’s better suited.

36. Flight attendants are often likely to share their destination secrets

If there is one person on the plane who probably knows more than most about several destinations, it’s a flight attendant. After all, one of the perks of the job is getting to travel the world, so why not ask them questions about your vacation? Thankfully, they are usually more than willing to share their tips and tricks.

That’s right; flight attendants don’t plan on keeping secrets about somewhere, especially if they have time to point you in the direction of must-see attractions. Just be sure to ask at an appropriate time, which probably isn’t when they’re trying to serve food and drink to the entire plane or going through the safety procedures.

37. A secret flight attendants try to hide is that restrooms can be unlocked from the outside

Many of us could be fooled into thinking that being in the bathroom means we have all the privacy in the world. Sometimes we just need to do our business, while other times we need a few moments to ourselves. Whatever the case, locking yourself in the restroom might not be as private as it seems on the outside.

Why? One of the secrets flight attendants try to hide is they can actually be unlocked from the outside. It’s usually hidden beneath a sign on the door, but it’s all for safety. That’s right; if someone gets locked inside, then the cabin crew needs to be able to get them out before they land the plane.

38. Flight attendants often have a similar list of the things that annoy them the most

Have you found yourself wondering what annoys flight attendants the most? While everyone is different and likely has their own opinions on the passengers they would rather avoid, it turns out that many have similar lists. Dealing with so many people throughout the years means most flight attendants have learned what they like - and what they don’t.

It turns out that trying to whisper to flight attendants is one of the many things that annoy them as it can be loud on a plane and tough to hear. Grabbing them is also another thing that’s sure to raise their blood pressure while complaining about maintenance or the weather are things entirely out of a flight attendant’s control.

39. Flight attendants usually hide that the shorter the skirt, the more senior their position

Most workplaces have their own way of quickly showing how senior someone is within the company. While flight attendants have a ranking, it might not be so apparent to the rest of the world. That’s because it’s one of the best-kept flight attendant secrets hiding in plain sight. The twist? It’s all to do with their skirts.

Being on probation means that flight attendants have to keep their skirts at a certain length. However, that all changes once they’ve passed. Sadly, some cabin crew have confessed that pilots or senior staff will take advantage of those with longer skirts as they know they’re on probation and likely won’t speak out in case they lose their job.

40. Ensure you only use blankets and pillows that are wrapped in plastic

We all have our own ways of coping with flying. Some plug in their headphones and catch up on their favorite TV show. Others? They prefer to sit back and relax with a little snooze to pass the time. If you’re one of the latter, you might find yourself taking advantage of the pillow and blanket on offer.

One of the biggest flight attendant secrets is to avoid using any pillows or blankets that don’t come wrapped in plastic. Why? Those wrapped in unsealed paper bags or ones that aren’t wrapped at all could have previously been used by another passenger, and likely won’t have been washed in between flights, meaning they could be covered in germs.

41. It might be best to bring your own entertainment for the flight

Plenty of airlines have come a long way in recent years and now have TV screens in the back of seats to keep us entertained. While they might not come stocked with the latest Hollywood blockbusters, they can be a great way to pass the time. However, flight attendants reveal we shouldn't rely solely on in-flight entertainment.

There are multiple reasons we might need something else to pass the time, including how some of the screens might not be working or there might be nothing on to watch. Rather than sit there bored for the next few hours, flight attendants suggest bringing something for ourselves, such as a downloaded show or book to read.

42. Dimming the lights on a plane is supposed to prepare our eyes to evacuate

If you’ve ever flown at night, then you might be more aware that the plane’s lights dim on landing and takeoff. This isn’t because the pilot is trying to put us all to sleep so the flight attendants have an easy ride. It’s actually all to do with health and safety, just in case something goes wrong.

Going from somewhere fully lit to complete darkness means our eyes likely need a moment or two to adjust to the change. Flight attendants have revealed that dimming the lights means our eyes will already be better adjusted to the darkness, so we should be able to see faster if we suddenly need to evacuate the plane.

43. It turns out flight attendants might have a secret language

One thing many flight attendants have learned is that it’s tough to be subtle when you’re on a cramped plane with hundreds of other people. So what if they want to talk about a certain passenger? One flight attendant told the ‘Kyle and Jackie O Show’ radio show that he has a secret language known only among flight attendants.

They allegedly use codes to talk about specific passengers, especially those they would like to get to know a little better. Instead of stating the seat number of someone, he claims they would use codes like “seven days in America” to speak about someone sitting in 7A. Of course, they sometimes have to get creative depending on the seat.

44. The cabin crew likely won’t label a choppy flight as extreme turbulence

Hands up if you’ve ever found yourself thinking about the things you’ll miss or wishing you could call your loved ones one more time when you hit turbulence? It’s a normal part of flying but can be enough to unnerve even the best of us. Perhaps you wouldn’t like to know that there is such a thing as extreme turbulence?

One thing that flight attendants don’t want us to know is that it exists in the first place, let alone how the captain will rarely declare something as extreme turbulence. That’s because the plane has to be grounded and checked before it can continue to fly, meaning they could lose precious time and pay for safety checks.

45. Frequent flier accounts often have notes attached to them

If you’re one of those people who always seems to be heading off on your next vacation, then you might have invested in a frequent flier account. They’re a great way to earn perks on journeys you already planned to take, but you might want to think twice about the way you treat the airline staff and check-in counters.

It turns out that every time your number is scanned, a file pops up that contains everything anyone needs to know about you - including notes people have added from past trips. That means if you’re rude to staff, it will probably be added to your frequent flier account. Thankfully, the same goes for if you’re kind.

46. Flight attendants have all kinds of tips and tricks to avoid jet lag

If there’s a group of people who know how to beat jet lag without really trying, it’s probably flight attendants. In fact, one of their best-kept secrets is the many ways to ensure your body is ready to go from the moment you land, even if you’ve traveled to a new timezone that’s halfway across the world.

One of the best things is to set your watch to the time of your destination the day you leave so you know what you would typically be doing. Then, be sure to get some sunshine as soon as possible to help your brain wake up naturally. Finally, try to nap instead of a full sleep if you’re really exhausted.

47. One of the secrets flight attendants never share is they don’t get paid until the doors shut

Working as a flight attendant might mean you get to travel the world, but that often comes at a cost - including your paycheck. One of the things flight attendants don’t want us to know is that they usually don’t get paid until the plane doors shut, and they stop getting paid the moment they open again.

That means if we’re delayed at the airport, the flight attendants sometimes try to rush passengers onto the plane and shut the doors, so they can at least be paid as they wait. It also means that all that greeting and pre-flight checks they do is out of their own pocket and not a paid part of the job.

48. Planes will allegedly fly with several broken items so long as it’s safe

It can be easy to think that everything on the plane has to be in tip-top condition before it’s allowed to take off. While pilots aren’t allowed to fly a plane if it’s dangerous, flight attendants might not want us to know that planes are cleared to fly with a host of things wrong so long as it’s safe.

Yup, Phoebe might have been onto something with the left phalange as planes come with a ‘minimum equipment list.’ This means so long as everything on the list is there and works, it can take off. Telling passengers this fact would likely just be enough to stress people out and put them off flying for good.

49. Flight attendants often hide that they can reset the inflight TV screens

Flight attendants often have to deal with all kinds of people throughout their shift. They could be nervous flyers, people who are a little more than demanding, or those who want to spend the entire flight talking. Whatever the case, it’s usually best to be as polite as possible to most people no matter the situation.

If not - and you find yourself being rude to flight attendants - you could learn one of their best-kept secrets. It turns out they can manually reset a TV screen on the back of the seat, and some have admitted to doing so every now and then if they have to deal with rude passengers and want to annoy them.

50. Avoid sitting by a bulkhead if you want to use your things throughout the flight

Ever heard of a bulkhead? These are the seats on planes found directly behind dividing walls, such as the walls between the captain and the rest of the aircraft or ones between the different classes. They can be more expensive than other seats as they offer more legroom, but that could be where the benefits end.

Sitting by a bulkhead means we have to store our things in the overhead lockers as there is no seat in front for storage, and they need to be out of the way in case of an emergency. This leads to the next problem; sitting by a bulkhead means we’re also the ones right next to the emergency exit.

51. Avoiding a bulkhead could also mean you avoid sitting near a baby

While not all of us want to admit it, there’s a good chance that plenty of passengers don’t want to find themselves sitting next to a baby throughout the flight. While it’s not their fault their ears hurt or they’re bored or they’re too hot, it can be trying to try and deal with fuss throughout our journey.

One way to lower your odds of sitting next to little ones is to avoid a seat next to a bulkhead. Why? These are the only seats large enough to safely secure a bassinet, meaning parents will often choose these seats if they’re available. Instead, choose one further away - especially toward the back of the plane - to be safe.

52. Consider asking your hotel for a doggy bag to take breakfast for the plane

There are plenty of reasons we might need to get a particularly early flight. Some do it because they want to make the most of their vacation and get to their destination early. Others do it because they want to save a few pennies and take a cheaper flight. Some might have no choice if there are limited flights.

One of the best-kept secrets by flight attendants is to ask your hotel if they have a doggy bag for breakfast if your flight is too early to make it to the buffet. While not all hotels offer this service, there’s a chance you could end up with some snacks, such as fruit and a drink.

53. Bigger planes usually have secret beds for flight attendants to use

Not every flight attendant hack is going to help passengers but can make us think twice the next time we get on a plane. Sometimes, we can be in the air for an incredibly long time, and many of us like to have a nap to pass the hours. So what about the flight attendants who might also need sleep?

Believe it or not, but some larger aircrafts come with hidden beds so they can get their heads down one at a time if there is a lull in service. They’re found above the overhead storage compartments and are usually pretty cramped. Still, they’re often better than trying to sleep in a seat or somewhere else hidden out of sight.

54. Flight attendants might size passengers up when boarding in case of an emergency

Many of us have grown used to flight attendants greeting us at the door throughout the years. They’re often there to point us in the right direction and welcome us to the plane. However, some flight attendants have confessed they’re also sizing people up in case they need them in an emergency while in the air.

No, we’re not talking about the ones they would save first. Instead, some flight attendants admit they look at people to see if they think they would be strong enough to help open emergency doors or lift something heavy. They also check to see if people would need extra help if they’re under the influence of drink or illegal substances.

55. Wearing layers for any flight should make things more comfortable

There are plenty of ways to dress for a plane. Some people have a business meeting the moment they land, so they need to be prepared, while others want nothing more than to be comfortable the entire time. Whatever the case, there’s one rule that flight attendants say we should stick to: wear different layers.

There’s a good chance the temperature on the plane will change a lot throughout the flight, going from cold with the air conditioning to hot and stuffy at the drop of a hat. Then, there’s the airport to consider. Wearing layers means we can keep warm when we need to and have clothes to remove if things start heating up.

56. It turns out that hotels often have spare phone chargers

Did you know that hotels could have more than we ever imagined? They’re a great place to get knowledge about the local area, have access to the best facilities, and could even have spare things we’ve forgotten in a rush to get our bags packed for a vacation. Many flight attendants have learned the latter from experience.

While we might have a list of clothes and items we need to take, it can be easy to forget what often feels like the most obvious things. If you forgot your phone charger, you don’t have to panic. It turns out many hotels have spare chargers at the front desk that they will loan to guests.

57. Flight attendants often don’t share that passengers can have an entire can of soda

Many people believe they have to take whatever size drink they are served on a plane, even if it seems to be a little on the small side. Some flight attendants will pour cans into a plastic cup but keep whatever is left in the can on the trolley. Amazingly, we might be able to change that.

That’s because Huffpost reports that nine times out of ten, flight attendants are more than happy to give us the entire can - we just need to ask. Now, we don’t have to worry about paying a fortune for a small cup of drink as we can enjoy the rest of our beverage throughout the flight.

58. Flight attendants often won’t help lift bags into overhead compartments on purpose

If you’ve ever been struggling to lift your bag into the overhead compartment and wondered why the flight attendant has merely stood there and watched you suffer - there might be a reason. It turns out that flight attendants might not tell us they’re taught not to offer help to people when they go through their training.

Why? They can get hurt while trying to help someone lift their bag into the compartment, and not being a part of the job description means they likely won’t be covered. That means no access to healthcare, time off, or compensation from the airline. Of course, many break the rules if there is someone seriously struggling.

59. The cabin crew has an emergency code to alert pilots to any danger

While many of us board a plane and forget all about things that might go wrong, flight attendants have to ensure they’re prepared for every situation that might come their way. That means having a plan in case something goes terribly wrong. What if they need to talk to the pilot but can’t get through the door?

Of the many secrets kept by flight attendants is how they have an emergency code they can use. This is a secret word that’s usually changed every few months and can be said in conversation through the intercom. If that happens, the pilot will lock the door and refuse to open it until the plane has landed.

60. Look up when traveling through airports to avoid getting lost or overwhelmed

It can be easy to get lost in new places, especially when it feels as though everyone knows where they’re going. The airport is likely no exception. Landing in a foreign country can make it even more confusing if you’ve never been to the airport before and you’re not sure where to go. That’s where one simple tip comes in.

Rather than try to get lost in the crowd or spend hours looking at your phone screen, be sure to look up. Flight attendants say this is the best way to find out where to go, as the signs are usually high on the wall or hanging from the ceiling. Yes, it really can be that simple.

61. Flight attendants say we should never sleep on sheets without a crease

Being a flight attendant usually means flying across the world. Even if there is no overseas travel, there’s a good chance the job comes with a lot of staying in various hotels. Perhaps that’s why flight attendants have learned so many tips and tricks along the way? Now, one is all about ensuring your hotel room is clean.

Flight attendants claim that we should always check the sheets in the bed before we climb in for the night to see if there is a crease. If there is, it usually means the sheets have been washed, ironed, and changed from the last guest. If there’s not, there’s a good chance someone has slept in the bed already.

62. One thing flight attendants don’t share is how the captain has a serious amount of authority

Being the captain is about more than ensuring the plane gets from A to B. It turns out the role also has a ton of responsibility, thanks to several federal regulations. This means the pilot in command - often called the PIC - has authority over pretty much anything as soon as the plane doors close before takeoff.

This means refusing entry to any passenger they think could be a threat or a nuisance, such as someone who’s had too much to drink or is under the influence of illegal substances. PICs can also fine passengers, take wills, and order to have anyone put in restraints if they feel it’s necessary. What the captain says goes.

63. Flight attendants don’t always get to eat during a flight

Being on a long flight usually means passengers get hungry. Our bodies are typically used to eating every so often, so it might not come as that much of a surprise. The twist? While we’re eating, there’s a good chance flight attendants aren’t. One of the secrets flight attendants don’t want to tell is how things can be pretty strict.

That doesn’t mean that every flight attendant is banned from eating on board - it just means they have to bring their own food or go hungry. Flight attendants admit that pilots will get fed on international flights, but they have to pack snacks or go without. Even then, they have to eat when the plane isn’t busy.

64. Any uneaten food has to be destroyed upon landing if the plane is from another country

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what happens to all the extra food on the planes, then you might not be too pleased to know that it has to be thrown in the trash once the plane has landed. At least, that is if the aircraft has come from a foreign country as it’s deemed international waste.

That’s probably not great news for people who want to try and cut down on food waste or enjoy an eco-conscious vacation. On the flip side, food that’s destined for private planes that have been delayed can sometimes be passed over to flight attendants working on airlines, so they have a treat before they take off.

65. Flight attendants claim we should sit at the back of the plane for a better service

When it comes to flying secrets that every passenger should know, it seems one might be easier than most - and it’s all to do with where you sit on the plane. Flight attendants have revealed that a seat at the back of the plane means you usually get better service throughout the flight for various reasons.

One of the most common is because flight attendants don’t like to flaunt handing out extra items to people at the front of the plane, such as an extra blanket or drink, as they often have limited supplies. Giving them out to people toward the back means fewer people should see and, therefore, won’t ask for their own.