[header] How to stop the person in front of you from reclining seat on a plane [title] Have a strong empty water bottle on hand. [step] Purchase a large bottle of water or soda after you pass through security. You will use this bottle as your recline-defender once you get on the plane. 
[substeps] Use the bottle with or without the liquid still inside. [title] Ready yourself for when the captain turns off the seatbelt sign or you know that passengers may start reclining in their seats.