5 Things You Should Never Put in an Airplane Seatback Pocket

Staying Healthy on the Plane

Cynthia Wycoff Geraghty

10/22/20262 min read

People traveling on an airplane during daytime
People traveling on an airplane during daytime

5 Things You Should Never Put in an Airplane Seatback Pocket

Golden Compass Journeys Smart Travel Tips

The seatback pocket may seem like a convenient place to stash your belongings, but it can also be one of the least-clean spots on the plane. To help keep your essentials safe, clean, and easy to find, here are five items you should keep elsewhere during your flight.

1. Your Phone

You touch your phone all day long, so it's best to keep it away from potentially dirty surfaces. Store it in your pocket, purse, or personal bag instead of the seatback pocket.

2. Unwrapped Snacks

It may be tempting to tuck a snack into the pocket for easy access, but food can come into contact with bacteria and residue left behind by previous passengers. Keep snacks sealed in a bag or container.

3. Laptops and E-Readers

Not only can these devices pick up germs, but they're also easy to forget when stowed in a seatback pocket. Keep electronics in a protective sleeve in your carry-on or personal item.

4. Glasses or Sunglasses

Seatback pockets aren't the safest place for eyewear. Glasses can easily be scratched, crushed, or forgotten during the rush to leave the plane.

5. Water Bottles and Drink Containers

The mouthpiece of your water bottle can pick up germs from surrounding surfaces. Store drinks in your tote, backpack, or seat-side bottle holder if available.

Easy Ways to Stay Organized and Clean on Your Flight

Pack Travel Wipes

A small pack of disinfecting wipes can help you quickly wipe down tray tables, armrests, seat belts, and other frequently touched surfaces.

Use a Packing Cube

Keep chargers, headphones, snacks, and travel essentials together in a washable packing cube. It's a simple way to stay organized and avoid using the seatback pocket altogether.

Create a Clean Barrier

If you need to use the pocket, consider lining it with a clean paper or plastic bag before placing your items inside.

⭐ Golden Compass Journeys Travel Tip:

Before leaving your seat, do one final check: phone, passport, glasses, earbuds, and charger. A quick 10-second scan can save you from realizing halfway through the airport that something important is still on the plane! ✈️🌍

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