Air travel is a stressful situation even in the best of times. However, when you have to deal with the added challenge of a difficult seatmate, it becomes unbearable. It doesn't matter if it's an armrest hog, a non-stop talker, or someone who doesn't practice basic hygiene; being stuck next to the wrong person turns a short flight into a long nightmare.
While you can't usually control who sits next to you, you also can't rely on luck. The key is to remember that you control how you respond to these uncomfortable situations, and that can make the difference between a calm flight and one that tests your patience.
Let's look at some proven ways to deal with a horrible plane seatmate.
Set Boundaries Early and Calmly
One effective way to deal with having a bad seatmate is to immediately set clear yet polite boundaries. Many issues surface simply because people are too shy to speak up. If your neighbor is edging into your space, using your armrest, or constantly bumping into you, a friendly comment can solve the problem quickly.
In these situations, you must keep your tone neutral and respectful. Direct phrases like "Would you mind keeping your arm on your side?" or "Could we share the armrest?" can communicate what you want without hurting someone's feelings or creating a tense situation.
Most people aren't being intentionally annoying, so addressing the issue early can prevent frustration from boiling over.
Distract Yourself to Protect Your Sanity
If the issue is something that can't easily be fixed, like a loud snorer or a chatty person, distraction can be your best friend. Investing in noise-cancelling headphones and listening to podcasts, movies, or music can create a much-needed invisible barrier that can signal to your seatmate that you're unavailable for conversation.
Physical cues are also important. Wearing headphones, opening a book, or closing your eyes even to fake sleep sends a clear message to most people. If the person continues to talk, only provide brief responses followed by immediately returning to your activity. It's all about protecting your mental and physical spaces, especially on long flights.
Be Tactful About Handling Hygiene and Comfort Issues
Hygiene-related issues, excessive coughing, or constant fidgeting are among the worst offences for a seatmate to commit. These situations must be handled more delicately, but luckily, some coping mechanisms won't result in confrontation. A travel-sized scarf or mask can block unpleasant smells, or a light application of scented lotion under your nose can make a difference.
If these issues persist and affect your health or comfort, you can reach out to a flight attendant for help. Their job includes resolving issues between passengers, and they should be adept at handling sensitive situations with discretion.
There is a difference between small annoyances and situations that can greatly impact your safety or well-being. Aggressive behavior, repeated boundary violations, or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe should be dealt with immediately. You're not out of line trying to resolve the issue or asking for assistance. You're simply advocating for yourself and making sure you have a pleasant flight.
