Is YOUR social media obsession ruining holidays for everyone? Expert warns travellers not to follow these viral airport trends
- From glam passports to sky-high mukbangs: Travel expert explains the five travel trends causing chaos
- Why your quest for likes could leave you stranded at security
Forget about lost luggage or flight delays: the latest threat to your travels could be coming from somewhere unexpected – your phone.
With a staggering 92% of Gen Z holidaymakers finding travel inspiration on social media apps like TikTok and Instagram, some viral travel trends are creating chaos in the terminal as usual airport etiquette flies out the departure gate.
Gavin Lapidus, travel consultant and founder of eShores, a leading travel company, has identified five viral travel trends that should be avoided. Otherwise, your dream holiday could turn into a nightmare before you’ve even left the airport!
From security stumbles to in-flight faux pas, here’s what to avoid on your next journey through the terminal.
1. ‘Aesthetic’ security trays: The art of annoying everyone
The latest social media craze sees travellers meticulously arranging their belongings in security trays for the perfect shot, with one viral ‘TSA bin aesthetic tutorial’ by TikToker @pipertaich amassing over 1.7m views. But this impromptu photoshoot at security is causing more than just eyerolls among fellow passengers.
“These ‘tray displays’ might look great on Instagram or TikTok, but they’re adding unnecessary time to the security process,” notes Gavin. “In busy airports, even small delays can quickly cause irritation or further hassle.”
With security queues already a cause of headaches for travellers, social media content should take a backseat. Save the styling for your destination – your fellow travellers will thank you!
2. Viral passport makeup: How glam is too glam?
The pursuit of the perfect passport photo has taken a dramatic turn. Some travellers go to extreme lengths when it comes to their makeup, with a ‘full glam’ passport makeup look, taking TikTok by storm. While everyone wants to look their best in their passport photo, this trend could lead to more than just a few raised eyebrows.
“Airport officials are trained to match your face to your passport photo, so an overly glamorous look could lead to delays if you’re not recognisable. Plus, passport photos with too much makeup might not be approved initially, causing delays in receiving your passport. To eliminate any stresses, aim for a natural look that you can easily replicate on travel days,” Gavin explains.
3. In-flight mukbang: A recipe for disaster
Mukbang has taken over the internet, with social media star Trisha Paytas claiming to have earned $50,000 from just one mukbang video on YouTube. Now, the popular trend of consuming large quantities of food on camera is making its way to the skies, with some travellers packing elaborate meals or over-ordering on flights in a bid to go viral.
This trend isn’t just a potential mess; it’s a recipe for passenger conflict. Gavin advises: “Strong food odours in confined spaces can lead to discomfort for those around you, not to mention the space issues in already cramped conditions. Be mindful of your fellow passengers, especially those with food allergies who could be seriously affected by outside food brought onto the plane. Of course, no one will think twice about you enjoying a meal or snacks during a flight.
However, taking up space with excessive food and filming is a plane etiquette no-go.”
4. The ‘airport transition’ trend: A leap too far?
This transition effect, where travellers film themselves jumping at the airport and then ‘into’ their destination, might seem harmless. However, attempting the perfect jumping shot in busy terminals could lead to trip hazards or collisions with other travellers or luggage. The distraction of filming can also cause people to be less aware of their surroundings in these high-traffic areas.
“While creative, this trend can be disruptive and potentially dangerous in busy airport environments,” says Gavin. “If you must participate, ensure you’re well away from other people and not creating any trip hazards, especially for travellers in a rush!”
5. ‘Rawdogging’ flights: When mindfulness goes wrong
The latest travel wellness trend encourages travellers to avoid all entertainment on flights, instead opting to sit with just their thoughts and practice mindfulness. However, some participants take the trend one step further, choosing to forgo food and even water in the skies.
While mindfulness has benefits, taking it to this extreme could harm your health. “Avoiding food and water for long periods may cause headaches and discomfort. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, nourished, and mobile during flights,” Gavin emphasises.
As social media continues to shape our travel experiences, travellers should aim to strike a balance between capturing memories and respecting the space and time of others. By avoiding these viral trends, you’ll not only make your own journey smoother but also contribute to a more pleasant travel experience for everyone.
For more information on eShores, and how they can help you plan and book your dream holiday, visit https://www.eshores.co.uk/
