Online Reporter
Coach Molly Chuma
Grooming
THE festive season is a time of joy, celebration and reconnection.
Families travel across borders to reunite, professionals take well-deserved breaks, and many of us finally step into the “holiday mode” we have been dreaming about all year.
Yet as airports get crowded, buses fill up, and hotels become fully booked, something else also rises. Tension.
This is why travel etiquette matters more than ever during the holiday season.
Good manners turn stressful travel into smooth travel, and they help create a pleasant journey not only for you, but also for the many people around you including airport staff, hotel employees, drivers and fellow travellers.
Here are essential etiquette principles to help you travel with elegance, confidence and consideration this festive season.
1. Start with preparation: Etiquette begins before you leave home
Most travel frustrations come from poor preparation. Good manners begin with being organised. Check your travel documents early such as passport validity, tickets, accommodation confirmations, visa requirements and vaccination documents where necessary.
Arrive early for flights, buses or trains. The festive season is unpredictable. Lines are longer and delays are common.
Pack smart. Avoid overpacking to the point where others must assist you unnecessarily. Choose luggage you can comfortably lift and carry.
Label your bags clearly to avoid confusion at baggage claim. Preparation shows respect for your own time and the time of others. It also reduces stress and keeps your energy calm and pleasant throughout the journey.
2. Airport and bus terminal etiquette: Respect shared spaces
Travel hubs become overcrowded during the holidays. Practise these simple courtesies:
Queue politely. Cutting lines or sending one person to hold a spot for several others is unfair to those who have been waiting patiently. Keep your voice down during phone calls. Not everyone needs to hear your entire travel story.
Watch your luggage. Do not block walkways or seats with bags. Shared spaces require shared consideration. Be patient with staff. Airline and bus company employees handle thousands of travellers. Speak kindly, even when you are tired or frustrated.
When you remain calm and respectful, you set the tone for a more pleasant travel experience.
3. Security check etiquette: Keep it moving
Security is often the most stressful part of festive travel. Help the process by: Removing laptops, liquids and jackets before you reach the front of the queue. Keeping pockets empty and documents easily accessible. Avoiding jokes about bombs or threats. Security takes such remarks seriously. Moving aside quickly after being checked to allow the next traveller to continue. Efficiency is a courtesy that benefits everyone.
4. Airplane and bus etiquette: Comfort without inconveniencing others
Once seated, remember that you are sharing a confined space with strangers. This is where etiquette becomes very visible.
Reclining your seat: It is acceptable to recline, but do it slowly and kindly, especially if the person behind you is eating or using a laptop. If you are seated behind someone, avoid pushing or kicking the seat.
Armrests: Middle seat passengers deserve at least one, if not both, armrests. They have the least comfort. Offer them some grace.
Personal hygiene: Freshen up before travel. Avoid overpowering perfumes in closed spaces. Keep shoes on unless you are travelling long distance and your feet are clean and odour free.
Children: If travelling with little ones, be considerate. Carry quiet toys, snacks and gadgets. Apologise politely if your child becomes restless. A little consideration goes a long way in creating a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Hotel and lodge etiquette: Be a thoughtful guest
Hotels and resorts work hard to make your stay pleasant. You can return the courtesy by:
Checking in with patience. Staff may be overwhelmed during peak season.
Respecting housekeeping. Keep your room reasonably tidy and avoid unnecessary messes.
Being mindful of noise. Loud music, hallway shouting and late night conversations disturb other guests. Handling property carefully. Treat hotel items like you would treat your own belongings. Tipping when appropriate. A small token of appreciation to housekeeping or porters goes a long way. A well-mannered guest is always welcomed back.
6. Cultural etiquette: Travel with cultural sensitivity
Many Zimbabweans travel to South Africa, Dubai and other destinations during the festive season. Remember: Dress appropriately for the culture you are visiting. Learn basic greetings or polite phrases. Respect local customs, queues and public behaviour expectations. When you travel, you represent not just yourself, but also your country.
7. Social media etiquette: Post responsibly
We all love holiday photos, but keep these guidelines in mind: Avoid posting strangers’ faces without permission. Do not overshare sensitive travel details such as flight numbers or hotel rooms. Remember that not everyone is travelling. Share joy without appearing boastful. Be elegant online and offline.
Final thoughts: Travel with grace
The festive season is about joy, peace and connection. Etiquette helps keep that spirit alive even in crowded airports, long queues and busy hotels. When you travel with grace, patience and respect, your journey becomes part of the celebration.
May your travels this holiday be safe, smooth and beautifully mannered.
Coach Molly Chuma is a Grooming and Etiquette Coach, Beauty Expert and Leadership Development Mentor. She is dedicated to helping professionals, teens and women elevate their confidence, presence and personal brand through modern manners and polished living. coachmolly@ gmail.com | +263772956884
