Flight attendant reveals secret plane hack that solves common travel problem

Posted by Admin October 29, 2024 Travel

Whether you roll, fold or get seriously fancy and use a packing cube, no item of clothing is safe from getting creased and crumpled in a suitcase.

The truly diligent among us will use the hotel iron (if there is one) – but many make do with looking slightly dishevelled for the duration of their getaway.

But now, a flight attendant has revealed a little known secret that can remove this problem altogether.

Speaking to Metro, ex British Airways cabin crew Saskia Sekhri explained that lots airplanes have an on-board wardrobe – and passengers can use it.

Nope, we had no idea either.

So, if you’ve got a item of clothing that you want to give some special treatment to, all you have to do is ask the crew on board if there’s space.

Plus, if you’ve got a big winter coat, hanging it in the wardrobe gives you a little extra space, rather than trying to shove it under the seat in front of you.

Cheerful woman in fur coat walking down airplane stairs — Bulky items like big coats can be put in the wardrobe to save space (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Saskia says it tends to be travellers who have paid for a premium service that ask for room in the secret spot – but it can be utilised by everyone.

Saskia says: ‘I think it’s typically frequent flyers who ask about the onboard wardrobes, as normally they’re flying for business and may be carrying a suit bag that they wish to hang.

‘Alternatively, passengers who have indulged in some retail therapy and have large shopping bags that may take up too much overhead locker space.

‘It would usually be our more premium cabin customers that would ask to utilise the wardrobe, but I’d always offer to hang a long/smart coat up for any customer during boarding, there’s nothing worse than a creased coat.’

Make the most of your baggage allowance this winter

A new study has found that 60% of Brits are considering going on a winter city break before the year ends, with 71% of these trips being to short-haul, which often means hand luggage only.

Saskia is working with Joules, to offer inside tips on how to make the most of your hand luggage allowance for a winter break.

Opt for compression packing cubes. ‘These clever tools can save you tons of space. They will compress your bulky items like sweaters, scarves, and coats down to a fraction of their size, leaving room for all your other essentials.’
Stick to a monochrome colour scheme. ‘Packing neutral colours or monochrome outfits will enable you to mix and match your outfits on the go. These versatile, neutral layers can be worn in multiple ways, thus creating your very own on-the-go capsule wardrobe.’
Embrace layering with lightweight fabrics. ‘Instead of packing bulky jumpers, pack base layers made from materials like merino wool or HeatTech ranges as these provide excellent warmth but without the bulk. Layering these with thinner knitwear and coats ensures you stay warm without taking up valuable luggage space.’
Put your coat in the onboard wardrobe. ‘My advice would be to ask your cabin crew if it’s possible to hang any longer coats that crease easily in the wardrobe.’
Prep for colder temperatures on the plane. ‘The temperature on the aircraft will drop once you’re airborne and most short-haul airlines no longer provide blankets and pillows. Take preventative measures by dressing on the side of caution with additional layers in case you’re cold. Base layers and thermals are great onboard and you’ll need these anyway for your wintery getaway! Compact gilets are a great option.’
Make sure your hotel has an iron. “It’s always worth checking before you travel whether or not your hotel has an iron available to use on arrival. This way you can prioritise space in your luggage without worrying about if any shirts or trousers are likely to get creased when being packed tightly in your bag.’