Travel etiquette

Travelling well means being comfortable yourself without making anyone else uncomfortable, and respecting the places you visit.

On the plane

• Before reclining, glance back and warn the person behind. Avoid reclining during meal service or on short flights; a partial recline is a fair compromise.
• The middle-seat passenger traditionally gets both armrests.
• Overhead bins: suitcase wheels first, handle out; coat on top of your bag; keep things you need under the seat in front.
• Use earphones, keep your space tidy, and wait your turn to leave the plane, row by row.

Hotels

• Treat staff with the same courtesy as at home: greet, thank, be patient.
• Leave your room reasonably tidy.
• Tipping housekeeping is common in the US (the American Hotel and Lodging Association suggests US$2 to $5 per night, left daily with a note). Norms differ elsewhere; check before you travel.

Cross-cultural respect

• Before any trip, look up local customs on dress, greetings, tipping, photography and religious sites.
• Learn 'hello', 'please' and 'thank you' in the local language.
• Dress for the place, not just the weather: cover up for religious sites.
• Ask before photographing people.
• Remember you represent your family and country. Kind, respectful visitors are welcomed back.