A survey conducted by bathroom supply store, QS Supplies, gathered the opinions of 1,000 UK and American travelers on the topic of using the bathroom. The findings showed that Gen Z travelers have strong opinions on bathroom etiquette, with some expressing discomfort about using public restrooms while traveling. A notable 29% of respondents believed they should be compensated for being seated next to someone who passes gas, and 23% suggested that individuals with smelly flatulence should be removed from flights.
The study also revealed that air travel can contribute to passengers feeling gassy, likely due to the change in cabin pressure as the plane ascends in altitude. While some bathroom habits cannot be controlled, the survey found that 40% of travelers admitted to urinating in a bottle when unable to locate a restroom, and 35% preferred holding it rather than using an unfamiliar toilet. Surprisingly, over 20% of respondents claimed to have held their bladder for over two hours before finding a public restroom, highlighting the lengths people are willing to go to avoid using public facilities.
On average, travelers were willing to withhold their bowel movements for up to 83 minutes, citing concerns such as cleanliness, unpleasant odors, and a lack of toilet paper and soap as reasons for hesitancy. The study also uncovered that 44% of respondents admitted to skipping handwashing after using the restroom while on vacation, reflecting varying attitudes towards hygiene. Despite concerns about cleanliness, some individuals may prioritize convenience or rely on hand sanitizers in place of traditional handwashing.
In addition to their bathroom habits while traveling, Gen Z individuals also displayed unique behaviors when it comes to workplace restrooms. Another study by QS Supplies found that one in three Zoomers are hesitant to use the restroom at their place of work, with a significant portion having never defecated in the office. These findings highlight the diverse and sometimes unusual attitudes and behaviors surrounding bathroom usage among different demographics and settings. By examining these trends, researchers and businesses can gain insights into public sanitation practices and address potential areas for improvement.
Overall, the data from the surveys conducted by QS Supplies shed light on a range of bathroom habits and attitudes among travelers, particularly Gen Z individuals. While some respondents expressed discomfort and anxiety about using public restrooms during travel, others highlighted unconventional behaviors such as urinating in bottles or withholding bowel movements for extended periods. The findings also revealed varying attitudes towards hygiene, with a significant percentage of individuals admitting to skipping handwashing after bathroom use. These insights provide valuable information for understanding and addressing public sanitation practices in different settings, from travel to the workplace.
