The Bougie Brunette’s Guide to Flying with Grace
Modern etiquette at 30,000 feet
There’s something undeniably elegant about air travel—or at least, there used to be. Between clunky carry-ons, snack explosions, and passengers who treat the aisle like their living room, the skies have lost a bit of their sparkle.
Whether you're jetting off to the South of France or just heading home for the weekend, flying like a Bougie Brunette means packing poise, planning ahead, and leaving a little trail of gracious glam behind you.
Be the Flight Crew’s Favorite
Want a smoother flight, an extra glass of champagne, or maybe just the kind of experience that makes everyone glance at you like you must be somebody?
Bring a small gift for the crew. Every time I fly—especially on multi-leg trips—I pack a thoughtful gift bag for each flight crew. It doesn’t have to be elaborate: a few wrapped treats, a thank-you note, or even hand lotion or mints with a sweet message.
I’ve had flight attendants come by to thank me personally. I’ve been offered perks like bonus miles, upgrades, extra bubbly, and—perhaps best of all—that knowing look from fellow passengers wondering who I am (spoiler: I’m just someone who values kindness).
Graciousness is chic—and often, it’s rewarded.
Board Quickly, Travel Lightly
If you want to start your trip on a bougie note, keep your boarding moment clean and composed.
Avoid oversized, bulky carry-ons that turn the overhead bin into Tetris.
Don’t unpack a dozen tiny “flight essentials” into every seat pocket.
Keep everything streamlined in a single pouch or tote, and settle in quickly.
Boarding is not the time to reorganize your bag or freshen your serum.
A quiet grace goes a long way—and it keeps things moving for everyone else, too.
Be a Dream Seatmate
You don’t need to sparkle or impress—you just need to be considerate.
Greet your seatmate with a smile, not a story.
Keep your limbs (and your belongings) within your own space.
Use headphones. Always.
If you tend to get up frequently, book an aisle seat in advance. Don’t be that girl.
And for the love of all things bougie, keep your feet tucked away.
Flying can be long and arduous, but no one wants to be greeted with the sight—or worse, the scent—of your shoe goblins. Socks stay on, shoes stay on, and feet stay firmly on the floor.
Courtesy is never out of style. Especially at 30,000 feet.
Traveling with Kids (Graciously)
Flying with children? Hats off to you. It takes planning, patience, and a sense of humor—but it doesn’t have to be chaotic.
A few simple etiquette upgrades:
Bring quiet, engaging distractions: sticker books, downloaded shows, snacks, and activities.
Keep essentials packed in one bag you can manage yourself—being hands-free and prepared keeps the day easier for everyone.
If your little one is too young to carry their things, pack light and plan smart.
The key isn’t perfection—it’s preparation. Being mindful of those around you doesn’t take away from your experience; it elevates it.
Exit Like a Lady
There’s nothing less chic than someone frantically shoving cables and snacks into a tote while blocking the aisle.
Begin your descent with grace:
About 30–45 minutes before landing, begin quietly packing your items away.
Have your bag zipped and ready before the wheels touch down.
Leave your seat—and the experience—as polished as you arrived.
Someone around you is probably trying to catch a connection. Don’t be the reason they miss it.
In Summary: Fly Bougie, Not Bulky
Flying with grace doesn’t require a first-class ticket (though we love one). It requires presence, preparation, and a sense that how you move through shared spaces matters.
So whether you're heading to your next escape or just flying home for the weekend—be the kind of passenger who elevates the experience for everyone. Grace is always in style. And occasionally, so is extra champagne.
