Texans Naughty Behavior While Traveling

My dear Lone Star State, we need to have a serious heart-to-heart about our travel behavior. I recently stumbled upon a AAA study that made me say, “Y’all… we’re better than this.”

Apparently, Texans have picked up a few too many bad habits, not just quirky or naughty, but downright rude and inconsiderate ones. From pushing seatbacks to going barefoot mid-flight, it’s time we check ourselves before we wreck someone else’s travel day.

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Texans Rank 4th in the Nation for Bad Travel Behavior

That’s right. According to AAA and Solitaire Bliss, Texas ranks #4 in the entire country for misbehaving on planes and at airport terminals. I used to think our reputation came from cowboy hats, juicy brisket, and hospitality, but now, it seems we’re also known for loud chewing and flatulence at 30,000 feet.

Read More: Only Texans Know What These 6 Hand Gestures Really Mean

No lie, I was reading this just after gifting my wife one of Emily Post’s original etiquette books for Mother’s Day. Ain’t that ironic?

1. What Are We Doing That's So Rude?
2. Here’s what Americans, including plenty of Texans, admit to doing on flights:
3. Plopping bags on open seats or terminals – 51%
4. Reclining seats without asking – 38%
5. Leaving phones on instead of airplane mode – 37%
6. Letting one fly in the cabin – 32%
7. Leaving trash in the seat pocket – 32%
8. Asking strangers to trade seats – 25%
9. Claiming both armrests when not in the middle seat – 23%
10. Sticking legs out in the aisle – 20%
11. Ignoring the seatbelt sign – 19%
12. Pushing the seat in front of you – 11%
13. Getting sloppy drunk – 9%
14. Wearing too much cologne/perfume – 8%
15. Going barefoot on the plane – 6%
16. Bringing strong-smelling food – 5.5%

Honestly, just reading that list makes me want to bring back mandatory charm school.

It’s Not Just What We Do, It’s What Others Notice

The survey also asked what bad behaviors people witnessed during travel. One that stood out: poor hygiene. Let me just say this, if you’re going to be in close quarters with 200 strangers, please put on some deodorant. That’s not “asking too much”, that’s just called “not being the smelly guy on the plane.”

TimlyTravel Tips for Texans

Now, I know not everyone in Texas is guilty. But if you’ve ever done any of these things (and I won’t lie, I’ve been tempted to claim both armrests before, even though I only need one), here are a few gentle reminders:

• Be self-aware – Think of others before you lean, stretch, or snack.
• Smells matter – Brisket belongs at Cooper’s, not in row 23.
• Don’t push seats – It’s an airplane, not a recliner showroom.
• Respect the shared space – We’re all just trying to get where we’re going.

Let’s Bring Back Texas Hospitality, Even at 30,000 Feet

Texas is famous for our warmth and friendliness, so let’s act like it, even in the TSA line. Whether you’re flying out of DFW, Houston, or little ol’ Abilene, don’t let our Southern charm disappear at cruising altitude.

And if all else fails? Just do what my Mama always said: “Don’t be rude.”

Want to Sound Off?

What’s the rudest travel habit you’ve witnessed? Drop me a message, and no shame if it was your seatmate.