We Carry On

I arrive at Memphis International Airport with plenty of time to spare, and confident I’ll have no issue boarding the plane with my carry-on, as it conforms to United’s carry-on policy. When I flew in from Newark, I simply placed my carry-on in the overhead bin and took my seat. I was planning to do the same for the flight back.

Yet, as I enter the plane, I quickly notice that the overhead bin above my seat is the size of the overhead space on an Egged bus in Israel. Indeed, the small compartment isn’t even large enough for my hat to fit in.

A passenger behind me comments, “I see they’re using the smaller plane for this flight,” and I begin to enter panic mode. I’m always concerned about how frum Jews look and act on planes. My worst nightmare is about to begin.

Since I come equipped with a carry-on, a hat, and a jacket, I always attempt to board as early as possible. This way, I can quickly store my stuff and take my seat without bothering anyone by struggling to find a place for my hat or jacket.