Photography: Brianna Noelle Photography 
 On my very first flight, I was so nervous about asking for a seatbelt extender that I did something I now regret...I pretended to fasten my seatbelt instead of asking for the help I needed. I was ashamed, embarrassed, and more worried about what other people would think than about my comfort and safety. Looking back, I realize how unnecessary that stress was. Today, I want to share five simple tips for plus sized travelers to confidently and calmly ask for a seatbelt extender so you can fly with peace of mind.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or preparing for your very first trip, these tips will help you advocate for yourself without anxiety.

1. Ask the Flight Attendant Before You Sit Down

As soon as you board the plane, let a flight attendant know that you’ll need a seatbelt extender. This is often the easiest moment to ask because it feels more discreet, and flight attendants are used to these requests. A simple, calm ask like “Hi, can I please have a seatbelt extender?” works perfectly. 

2. Use Your Boarding Time to Your Advantage

If you have early boarding (through priority boarding or simply ask the gate agent to pre-board and let them know you need a little extra time), that’s the perfect opportunity to request your extender without a full audience of passengers. You’ll be able to get settled comfortably before the cabin fills up, which can take away a lot of the anxiety. 

3. Keep It Short and Simple

Sometimes, our nerves make us want to over explain. Remember: you don’t need to justify your request. Flight attendants hand out extenders all the time, and it’s part of their job to make sure you’re safe. A short, confident ask will feel easier and help normalize the experience for you.

4. Choose Your Seat Strategically

If possible, book an aisle seat or a seat toward the back of the plane. These tend to give you a little more room to adjust, and being on the aisle can make it easier for you to communicate with the crew without drawing attention.

5. Remind Yourself: Comfort and Safety Come First

At the end of the day, your comfort and safety matter more than what anyone else may think. Most people are too busy worrying about their own travel experience to notice. Asking for a seatbelt extender is no different than asking for an extra blanket or headphones!

Bonus Tip: Bring Your Own Seatbelt Extender
If you want extra peace of mind, you can bring your own FAA-approved seatbelt extender. Many plus size travelers find that having their own eliminates the stress of asking, especially on longer flights. Just be sure to double-check that the extender you purchase is certified for in-flight use.

Here are 3 three seatbelt extenders that I currently use:
Airplane Seatbelt Extender by Mirone


2 in 1 Airplane Seatbelt Extender