TikTok flight attendant shares a smart tip for plus-size travellers: ask for a seatbelt extender whilst boarding to avoid stress or anxiety of asking when everyone has sat down
TikTok flight attendant Jeenie.weenie has shared a valuable tip for plus-size travellers.
For many passengers, the idea of asking for a seatbelt extender in front of others can cause a great deal of anxiety. The fear of being singled out or feeling embarrassed is a very real concern. But Jeenie has a clever, simple solution that might just make the process far easier.
When you’re boarding your flight, instead of waiting until you’re seated to ask for a seatbelt extender, make your request while you’re boarding. This simple shift in timing can save you a lot of stress.
Many airlines keep seatbelt extenders at the boarding area, so the flight crew can hand one to you immediately. If they don’t have one on hand, you can simply give them your seat number, and once the boarding process is complete, they’ll bring the extender to you at your seat.
This strategy ensures that only the crew member hears your request, as everyone else will be focused on boarding. In other words, there’s no need to worry about making the request in front of a crowd of passengers. The moment will be private, and you can avoid any unnecessary attention.
The beauty of this advice is that it removes the stress of needing to ask in front of others or waiting until you’re in the air to receive the assistance you need. By asking early, you ensure that you’re not inconvenienced or embarrassed later on.
Airlines and their staff are accustomed to such requests and are usually very efficient at providing the necessary equipment. It’s simply part of the job to make sure all passengers, regardless of body size, have the necessary safety tools.
There’s no shame in needing a seatbelt extender—it’s simply a tool to ensure your safety, just like any other piece of equipment the crew provides. Flight attendants are trained to assist with all sorts of needs, from seat adjustments to dealing with medical emergencies, and they’re more than happy to help with seatbelt extenders too.
So, next time you’re flying and need a little extra length on your seatbelt, remember this simple tip: ask the crew for an extender while you’re boarding