The Nonrev Traveler: Now in Action Figure Form

If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably seen the wave of action figures created using the newest ChatGPT image tools. Teachers, baristas, software engineers, pet sitters—you name it, they’ve all been turned into delightfully cheeky collectibles, complete with tiny accessories and packaging that looks straight off a Target shelf.

So naturally, I had to jump on the trend and create one for the most underrepresented traveler of them all: the nonrev.

Introducing: The Nonrev Traveler Action Figure—a lovingly accurate depiction of what it takes to fly standby in today’s airport jungle.

She doesn’t have a seat (yet), but she does have:

• A passport and a well-worn carry-on

• A smile that says “please, gate agent, you’re my only hope”

• A backpack full of snacks and plan Bs

• And a toolkit of standby essentials:

  • ✅ Strong Wi-Fi (hello, flight loads and StaffTraveler)

  • ✅ Plan B (and C and D and E…)

  • ✅ Patience (borderline saint-level)

  • ✅ Thoughts and prayers 🙏

The Right Accessories

Each item included was no accident. Every passrider knows that a good Wi-Fi connection can be the difference between catching a last-minute open seat or rebooking for the third time. The “Plan B” key? That’s just the beginning. We all know it takes a whole alphabet of backup options. And of course, patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a nonrev’s survival skill.

The little 🙏 emoji? That one’s for all the whispered prayers while watching the standby list shrink… but not fast enough.

Did I Get It Right?

I had a blast putting this together! What else should’ve been included in the Nonrev Traveler’s kit? A Starbucks gift card? Compression socks? Emotional support croissant?

Tell me what your standby survival kit would include—and which action figure in the “I Was #1 On the List” series you’d want next.