Air travel can be stressful, and sometimes it feels like we’re all packed into a confined space, vying for limited resources. While we’re all eager to grab our bags and head home after a long flight, the behavior of some passengers at the baggage carousel can add to the chaos. You know who we’re talking about: those people who crowd right up to the carousel, blocking everyone else’s view and making it nearly impossible to maneuver. We’ve dubbed them “carousel lice,” and if you’ve ever flown, you’ve probably encountered them.
Understanding the “Carousel Lice” Phenomenon
“Carousel lice” is a term for those passengers who exhibit impatient and inconsiderate behavior at the baggage claim. Instead of waiting a respectful distance and allowing others to see and retrieve their bags, they push forward, creating a barrier that prevents anyone else from getting close. Even when you see your bag, they create such a small window for you to take the bag off the carousel, that you risk banging into them.
This behavior is frustrating for several reasons:
- Obstructed View: It prevents others from seeing their bags as they come down the carousel.
- Limited Maneuverability: It makes it difficult to reach your bag, even if you do spot it.
- Increased Stress: It adds to the already stressful experience of air travel.
- It’s Inefficient: In the end, it doesn’t really get anyone their bags any faster.
The worst airport that I have seen this Carousel Lice is at Orlando International Airport. This may be caused by all the families that are going to Disney World, Universal and SeaWorld. On the flip side, Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas has the least number of carousel lice. My best guess is that gamblers and business travels tend to bring more carry-ons and less checked bags.
Tips for Dealing with Carousel Lice (and Avoiding the Behavior Yourself)
While you can’t always change other people’s behavior, you can take steps to minimize the impact of “carousel lice” and ensure a smoother experience for yourself and others:
- Practice Patience: It might be tempting to join the crowd, but resist the urge. Take a deep breath, step back, and wait for your opportunity.
- Position Yourself Strategically: Instead of standing directly in front of the carousel, try positioning yourself slightly to the side. This can give you a better view and allow you to move in when you see your bag.
- Be Assertive (But Polite): If someone is particularly egregious in their behavior, don’t be afraid to politely ask them to step back. A simple “Excuse me, could you please give everyone a little more room?” can sometimes work wonders.
- Travel Light: If possible, avoid checking bags altogether. This eliminates the need to visit the baggage claim area and deal with “carousel lice” altogether.
- Use Technology: Many airlines have apps that track your bag’s progress. This can give you a better idea of when to expect it and help you avoid unnecessary crowding.
- Lead by Example: The best way to combat “carousel lice” behavior is to model good behavior yourself. Be mindful of others, give people space, and wait your turn.
A Call for Baggage Claim Etiquette
Ultimately, the baggage claim area is a shared space, and a little courtesy can go a long way. By practicing patience, being mindful of others, and avoiding the “carousel lice” mentality, we can all make the post-flight experience a little less stressful.