'Airport tray aesthetic' is the latest Gen-Z trend having a moment rn

Ever found yourself at an airport security line, groggily tossing your belongings into the tray, only to glance over and see someone dedicated to arranging their lip gloss, retro film camera, Altoids tin (serving as a wallet, obviously), and a sleek pair of sunglasses—all positioned just so. With a quick click from their phone camera, they’ve turned a dull security checkpoint into a curated, aesthetic snapshot for Instagram. 

 

What honestly used to be a stressful scramble to get through security is now being rebranded as peak Gen-Z content, sparking thousands of online debates. But why do we see these curated airport trays when we scroll through our Instagram stories? This “airport tray aesthetic” is the latest trend that has taken over all our social media platforms, and love it or hate it, it’s undeniably a moment. Unlike previous generations, who often adhered to the unspoken rule of “get in, get out, no fuss,” Gen Z approaches even the most mundane pre-boarding moments with a distinct mix of creativity, individuality, and a desire for connection.

For Gen Z, this modern twist on “What’s in my bag?” is their way of showing their tastes, quirks, and lifestyle choices. Whether it’s the type of lip balm they carry, the brand of earphones they use, or the book they are currently hooked on too, it’s all an opportunity to craft a narrative about who they are, or at least who they want to be perceived as. This trend also taps into Gen Z’s love for authenticity, or maybe even a polished version of it. While previous generations may have focused on the destination or the journey itself, Gen Z finds beauty in the overlooked, the transitional, and the mundane. The security tray aesthetic exemplifies their ability to romanticise everyday moments and find creativity in spaces others might dismiss as boring or stressful.

Critics, however, have not been shy about voicing their disdain for the “airport tray aesthetic.” Many argue that this trend epitomises the worst aspects of performative social media culture, where even the most utilitarian moments are commodified for likes and validation. Scrolling through endless feeds of artfully arranged airport trays has left some users feeling fatigued, dismissing the trend as yet another example of Instagram's obsession with perfection and over-curation.

One common criticism is the perceived privilege that underpins the trend. For many, air travel is a stressful and often expensive necessity, not an opportunity for self-expression. This aesthetic curation of designer wallets, premium headphones, and boutique skincare and makeup items on display can feel tone-deaf to travellers for whom the airport experience is a logistical challenge rather than a creative outlet. This contrast has sparked conversations about the disconnect between online trends and real-life struggles, with some accusing influencers of glamorising a process that is inaccessible to many.

Another point of contention is the disruption the trend may cause in an already tense environment. Airport security lines are infamous for their efficiency-driven pace, and critics suggest that stopping to arrange belongings for a photo adds unnecessary delays. Many frustrated travellers have taken to social media to vent about encountering influencers mid-photo-op, blocking trays or holding up the line to get the perfect shot.

Furthermore, some have questioned the authenticity of the trend, noting the irony in how much effort goes into crafting what is meant to appear as a casual, spontaneous moment. Others also argue that this obsession with “aestheticising” every aspect of their life reduces genuine experiences into hollow performances, diluting the joy of travel and connection into something transactional.

Despite these criticisms, defenders of the trend maintain that it’s harmless fun and a form of creative expression. For them, transforming the mundane into something beautiful or aesthetically pleasing is a way to reclaim joy and individuality in an otherwise impersonal process. The debate, much like the trend itself, reflects a deeper generational divide over how we navigate and document our lives in an increasingly digital world. Whether you’re rolling your eyes or rearranging your belongings for a shot, one thing’s clear: airport trays have never been more polarising.

Lead Image: Muskkan Rawat Instagram.com/@Muskanrawat

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