Travel Myths We’re Breaking Up With!

Travel Myths: What’s Actually True

You’ve probably heard some of these in line at the airport, from a friend who “knows someone at Delta,” or in one of those reels with dramatic music. But let’s break down what’s actually true and what’s just travel lore that needs to go. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who takes one trip a year, knowing what’s real (and what’s nonsense) can help you plan smarter and travel better.

1. If you dress nicely, you’ll get upgraded.

Fiction. It’s a nice idea, and hey, it never hurts to look sharp. But airline upgrades are almost always based on loyalty status, fare class, or operational needs. Gate agents don’t have the discretion people think they do. If you’re hoping for an upgrade, your best bet is using miles, having elite status, or getting rebooked when a flight is oversold.

2. You absorb alcohol faster on planes.

Fact... kind of. It’s not that alcohol hits harder biologically, but the dry air and lower oxygen levels can make you feel buzzed faster. Add in dehydration, disrupted sleep, and pressurized cabins, and you’ve got a cocktail for quicker impairment. Best to drink water in between that wine and save the stronger stuff for when you land.

3. Duty-free shopping is always cheaper.

Fiction. Duty-free doesn’t mean deal. It just means tax-free. You can occasionally score a great price on liquor or perfume, but other items might cost more than they do online or at a regular store. Check before you buy, especially for electronics or designer goods.

4. The airplane door can open mid-flight.

Hard no. The cabin is pressurized. Even if someone tried, the door would be impossible to open at altitude. This is one of those myths that pops up during turbulent flights or in headlines but isn’t something you need to worry about.

5. The middle seat gets both armrests.

Fact. Not an official rule, but it should be. If you’re in the middle, you don’t get a window or easy aisle access. The trade-off is both armrests. Window and aisle folks, just let it go.

6. Jet lag is just about being tired.

Fiction. It’s not just sleep deprivation. Jet lag is your body clock being completely out of sync with your destination. It messes with digestion, energy, and even your mood. Light exposure helps reset your internal clock, so get outside early and often when you land.

7. If your flight is delayed, the airline has to compensate you.

It depends. In the U.S., airlines aren’t legally required to compensate you for delays unless you’re bumped from a flight involuntarily. In the EU or countries with strong passenger rights, you might be entitled to compensation depending on how long the delay was and what caused it. Always ask, but don’t assume.

8. Hotel key cards wipe your credit card info.

Fiction. This one won’t die. There’s no data stored on your hotel key beyond your room access. It won’t mess with your wallet or your phone. Keep it, lose it, use it as a bookmark. You’re good.

9. Booking on a Tuesday gets you the best deal.

Outdated. This used to be true when airlines loaded fares weekly, but pricing now changes constantly. Best strategy? Use fare trackers, set alerts, and book when it feels right. Don’t wait for Tuesday if you see a price you like.

10. Travel agents are obsolete.

False. A good travel advisor is your behind-the-scenes superhero. We do the legwork, troubleshoot when things go wrong, and know how to get you better experiences than a search engine. Who has been making awesome vacation dreams come true for the past 11 years? That would be me! Your favorite Fancy Fox Travel agent! xo

Got a myth you want me to investigate next time? Hit reply and I’ll dig in.

xo

Shauna