first travel by plane

First Time Flyer Guide and Checklist: Top 50+ Tips

From the first time I can remember flying as a kid, my parents would have me “lead” them around the airport and ask me to figure out what we had to do next. Even still, I was a nervous wreck on my first solo trip as an 18-year-old! But the trip went smoothly, and I quickly realized how EASY it can be to fly . This post gives advice for first-time flyers and a detailed airport guide and flying checklist to alleviate any stress before flying for your first time.

What Is It Like Flying for the First Time?

Flying for the first time is not nearly as scary as it feels like it will be!

Did you know that air transportation is actually the SAFEST form of travel?

My best piece of advice for first-time flyers is to be prepared for their flight (just follow this guide!) and know what to expect because the most stressful part of flying for the first time is getting through the airport.

Once you are on the plane it’s just a matter of relaxing until you land!

The actual experience of being on an airplane, I think, can be quite fun. Take off and landing will feel a bit like being on an elevator or a very calm rollercoaster. The airplane will begin to “taxi”, which is where they drive around the airfield to get into the proper position on the runway. Then, the plane will speed up and lift off.

When you get close to landing, there will be an announcement letting you know to prepare for landing. Landing is much quieter than take-off, the only thing you might feel is a small jolt when you touch down.

There may be some turbulence during your flight, this is normal! Turbulence happens when the airplane goes through a patch of irregular air. The captain may warn you first if there is a big patch of turbulence, but for the most part, it will just feel like light bumps and is nothing to worry about.

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How Do You Calm a First-Time Flyer?

It is normal for people to feel anxious about their first flight. If you or someone you are traveling with is on their first airplane, the best way to calm them is to prepare them. Become familiar with the process of going through the airport and what to expect during the actual flight.

Something that helps me is reminding myself that air travel is the safest form of travel, it’s FAR safer than driving even, which we do all the time.

If you want to know the statistics: There is 1 fatal accident per 16 MILLION flights. With fatal car crashes, the odds are 1 in 144. Insanely higher! So just remember that you are much much safer on an airplane.

Tips for First Time Flyers With Anxiety

Anxiety is normal for many people who travel by air. Even I can get a bit anxious on a plane, and I have been on more planes than I could even begin to count in my life. Here are a few helpful tips for a first-time flyer’s guide to experiencing anxiety:

• Get to your gate early. A big part of people’s anxiety starts with worrying about missing their flight.
• Being at your gate early lets you settle in. Take a walk, do some light stretches, or start listening to a calming book or music.
• For some people, having a drink or two (just don’t go crazy!) beforehand might help to calm the nerves – it’s why airport bars are popular!
• On the plane, if turbulence or something is making you anxious, practice calming breaths and clearing your mind of the anxious thoughts.
• Some flyers find it comforting to walk the plane and do some light stretches in the back.
• When we hit especially bad turbulence, I focus on breathing in and out slowly and repeating a phrase that calms me down. Often, I have to repeat, “It’s just a bit of turbulence, we’ll be through it soon.” Even though I logically know turbulence is completely normal!
• If you are prescribed anxiety medications , make sure to take your meds regularly or ask your doctor about how to take them to help specifically with flight anxiety.

ONE OF THE BEST PRODUCTS FOR FIRST-TIME FLYERS Memory Foam Neck Pillow + Eye Mask + Ear Plugs

Can I Use My Phone on a Plane?

Yes, you can use your phone on a plane if it’s in airplane mode. Some airlines and flights may ask that you turn your phone off completely during take-off and landing, especially if there is a bout of bad weather or the airport is busy.

For the most part, you can use your phone throughout the flight so long as airplane mode is turned on. This means you will not be able to use data but will have all other phone functions. Most airlines nowadays offer WiFi onboard the plane , but almost always for a fee.

What Do You Do at an Airport for the First Time?

This first-time flyer guide will outline what to expect for flying and exactly what to do at the airport step by step. Some airports are big and confusing, others are small and straightforward. Either way, once you know what to do at the airport it will be easy to navigate any airport , as they all follow the same structure.

Enjoy being at the airport! Maybe I’m just an oddball travel junkie, but I think airports are so much fun. There is great people-watching and seeing the destinations on the boards makes me think about all the possibilities of places to visit and how big the world is.

BUYING PLANE TICKETS FOR YOUR FIRST FLIGHT

1. how to pick your destination.

If you don’t already have a destination in mind but know you want to take a trip, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Weather – What time of year are you trying to travel? Look up the weather of your possible destinations during this time of year.
• Length of flight – For your first flight it might be better to pick somewhere closer that has a shorter flight.
• Price of flight – If you aren’t familiar with flying, you won’t have much of an idea of the price range of flights. Use a search tool such as Skyscanner to check for destinations and see what options for pricing you will have.
• Accommodation availability – There is nothing worse than buying a flight somewhere and THEN realizing there aren’t many options for places to stay or the options are out of your budget.*
• Be spontaneous – My favorite thing to do is pull up Skyscanner’s “Search Everywhere” tool and see what cities or locations have the best deals and cheapest flights. This is the perfect tool for someone who has a time frame in mind for a trip, but no idea where to go.

❗ *Still looking for accommodation? I use HostelWorld to find the best global hostels and Booking.com to find the best global hotel deals.

International vs Domestic Flights:

As a first-time flyer guide, it will be easier to pick somewhere domestic. However, first-time flyers shouldn’t be afraid of going international! There are so many amazing places to see, don’t limit yourself to staying local . For your first time going international, try to pick somewhere with a familiar culture and/or a language you speak.

💡 Browse through some of my destination guides for inspiration , and take a look through my travel resources page for the best tools that I use for both domestic and international trips.

2. How to Buy Plane Tickets

Once you know where you want to go, the next step is keeping an eye on flight prices. If you have an airline you have been recommended or have researched and would prefer to use, it’s best to just keep an eye on their website directly .

Otherwise, do some initial searches on flight prices to see if they are in your budget. If they are a little high, or you are far enough out you have the flexibility to see if the price will drop, then set up a ‘flight alert’ on Skyscanner to get notified when the ticket price goes down.

3. When to Buy Plane Tickets

Generally, you want to book plane tickets well in advance of your trip. Occasionally you can find great fare drops right before the flight, but that is a pretty risky gamble as they usually actually spike in price the last few. days before a flight.

For domestic flights, roughly 3 weeks to 3 months is a good time to buy tickets.

For international flights, give yourself even more time. Book at least one month out, but the best times to book range from three to five months out.

Keep in mind the time of year you will be flying in too. If you are flying during popular travel times such as the holidays or the summer, you probably want to look at flights even further out.

Another tip : I book most of my flights on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Flight prices tend to drop by a little bit during the week.

4. Where to Look for Plane Tickets

There are quite a few flight search engines that claim to find the best prices. Buying affordable plane tickets is the art of finding the right timing, staying patient, and researching across platforms.

The best way to buy plane tickets is to buy directly from the airline if they have a decent price for the flight. Otherwise, these are the flight search engines that I use and recommend:

Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights):

This is a FREE email list that sends you flight deals and fare drops from your home airport. I highly recommend everyone to sign up for this free service, you never know when they will send a deal for somewhere you are looking to go.

This list is perfect for the spontaneous traveler who doesn’t have a destination in mind. I have found many great deals through Going , and my friend once found a roundtrip ticket to Australia from Los Angeles for under $500!

➡️ CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR GOING

Skyscanner :

This is my favorite flight comparison tool for finding the best deals on flights. Skyscanner searches across airlines to find the cheapest flights. Plus, I love that you can search “everywhere” and “anytime” to find the cheapest flights. If you are flexible on the days you can fly, while searching you can see what days have the lowest prices.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR SKYSCANNER

❗Is Skyscanner legit? Read my review of Skyscanner HERE

Google Flights :

This is another favorite tool of mine to check for cheap flights across airlines. Google Flights is easy to use and reliably provides great deals.

5. Understanding Flight Add Ons

Of course, buying plane tickets is never as straightforward as it should be. Airlines will upcharge for just about everything nowadays.

While buying your ticket you will have plenty of places where the airline tries to add on features (i.e. extra legroom, meal service, baggage options). You can look through each option and decide what you want to add to your flight, or simply skip through and stay with the base rate.

6. Choosing Your Baggage Needs

Pretty much every airline nowadays will charge you a fee for checking a bag . Most airlines will allow you one carry-on (a small suitcase size and has to fit in the overhead bins) and a personal item (either a purse or as large as a standard backpack).

The budget airlines might not even allow you a carry-on without an extra fee or weight restrictions.

Usually while buying your ticket the airline will give you the option to choose how much baggage you will be bringing. Otherwise, check the airline’s website for their policy on baggage and what they allow to be carried on board. You will also be able to check online for the restrictions on dimension and weight that each airline allows.

🔻 One of the BEST travel carry-on backpacks! 🔻

Some flights will have a randomized seating selection, meaning it is the first available seating when you get on the plane. Most airlines let their passengers pick their seats ahead of time but may charge you to pick a seat and will certainly charge extra for better seats.

If you are traveling alone or are comfortable having your seat pre-assigned by the airline you might be able to save some money on not choosing a seat.

FIRST-TIME FLYER’S GUIDE TO PREPARING FOR YOUR FLIGHT

8. have the proper identification for flying.

To fly within the U.S. you will need a valid form of identification. As of May 7th, 2025 every passenger over the age of 18 will need to have a “Real I.D.” or a passport .

Depending on your destination and vaccination status, you may also need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination.

9. Buy Travel Insurance

Any time you travel you should always have travel insurance to cover you in case of an emergency. This is different from your normal health insurance and covers emergency travel situations such as delays, lost baggage, natural disasters, etc.

I use and recommend SafetyWing for medical and travel insurance. It is affordable, reliable, and flexible insurance that is specifically designed for digital nomads who will be traveling long-term, though it mostly covers emergencies which is perfect for short-term travelers and first-time flyers as well.

For an idea of how much insurance will cost you, use the tool below. Or, to purchase insurance directly from SafetyWing, CLICK HERE.

10. Know When Flyers Need to Be at the Airport

Domestic flyers:.

The standard recommendation for domestic flights is to arrive 2 hours before your flight.

This is to give you plenty of time to check in, check your bag, make it through security, and arrive at your gate before boarding starts.

As a first-time flyer’s guide, I encourage you to stick to this recommendation to give you plenty of time to make your way around the airport without worrying about being late.

However, if you are not checking a bag and you are at a smaller airport, you might have more wiggle room and could probably arrive an hour and a half to one hour before your flight, depending on your comfort level.

International Flyers:

The standard recommendation for international flyers is to arrive 3 hours before your flight.

11. Research How to Get To and From the Airports

If you aren’t familiar with where your airport is, research how long it will take you to get there and how you plan on getting there. If you need to park your car at the airport, you should know where to park it and how much it will cost.

Same thing on the arrival side, make sure you know how you will be getting from the airport to your accommodation at your destination.

❗ Do you need to rent a car for your first time flying? I recommend DiscoverCars for finding the best deals on rental cars during your trip.

12. How to Dress for Your Flight

People dress in a wide range for flights from comfortable to business-appropriate , so there is no right or wrong way to dress for your first time flight.

I recommend layering for your flight (or at least having a light sweater handy in case you get cold on the plane) and wearing clothes and shoes that are easy to remove for security.

Take into consideration the climate of where you land as well.

13. Prepare Your Entertainment

Some flights will have an entertainment system built into the seats. For shorter flights, your airline either won’t have in-flight entertainment or you might have to pay for it. For long flights (especially international ones) the airline might have free movies, TV shows, music, etc.

Beyond in-flight entertainment and bringing your own reading material (i.e. books, magazines), I recommend doing the following before your first time flying:

Download Apps:

If you want games (especially if you’re traveling with kids) or other apps that you can access without WiFi, make sure to download them ahead of time.

Download Books, Movies, Podcasts etc.:

I always make sure to download entertainment for myself onto my phone so I can use it in airplane mode. You can download shows on your Netflix app, or Podcasts and Books off of various apps.

Airport WiFi:

Almost all airports should have free WiFi available . If you have a smartphone, I recommend downloading the app (where applicable) for your airline. Often you will be able to use the app to be alerted to any flight or gate changes.

14. Pack Snacks

If you want to save some money on airport food, pack snacks! Most food should be fine to go through security, they may just ask you to take it out.

15. Prepare Your Foreign Currency

If you are traveling internationally, you might want to exchange some money ahead of time . Your local bank should be able to exchange foreign currencies. There is no need to travel with too much cash as that can be risky and exchange fees likely won’t be in your favor.

Get enough ahead of time that you have money for transportation and maybe some food and ‘just in case’ cash. Using ATMs or money exchanges at the airport upon arrival can be overpriced .

⭐️ But PRO TIP , get the Charles Schwab debit card (it’s free to open a checking account ) to receive unlimited ATM fee rebates for cash withdrawals worldwide. This card has saved me so much money while traveling!

FIRST TIME FLYER’S GUIDE TO CHECKING IN FOR YOUR FLIGHT

16. checking in online.

You can either check in ahead of time or do it in person when you arrive at the airport. Most airlines will send you a link to check in to your flight 24 hours in advance .

You can typically confirm your seating and verify flight details or any add-ons at this time. If you check in online or through the app, you will receive a mobile boarding pass. Simply show this pass on your phone at security and the gate or print it out in advance.

Personally, I always check in online ahead of time if I have the option. Not only does it save time and the hassle of waiting in more lines at the airport, but I also like knowing that I am set for my flight in advance.

17. In-Person Flight Check-in

If you choose to check in when you arrive at the airport you will be looking for your airline’s check-in counter that lists your flight destination. You will be walked through the check-in process and able to check your bags at this point.

18. Checking a Bag vs. Only Carry-Ons

If you need to check a bag you will look for your airline’s bag drop-off or check-in counter . Most airlines have a designated bag drop area now for online check-ins. Though you still might have to wait in the check-in line, so give yourself plenty of time on arrival.

If you only have carry-ons and have already checked in online, you can continue straight past your airline’s counter and on to security.

19. What to Do After Checking in

After you check-in, your next step is to head through security. Usually, at this point, you are just following the signs to get in the right line for security.

20. Asking for Guidance at the Airport

Don’t be afraid to ask for help at the airport! There are plenty of workers between those at the check-in counter, security, professionals with badges walking around the airport, etc. They know the airport very well and will gladly guide first-time flyers in the right direction if they get confused.

FIRST TIME FLYER’S GUIDE TO AIRPORT SECURITY

Airport security may seem like a daunting and complicated process, but you will get the hang of it quickly after the first time or two. Here is a first-time flyer’s guide to making airport security a breeze:

21. Make Sure All the Liquids in Your Carry-on Are Under 3.4 Ounces

You would be surprised how many liquids you might accidentally try to pack without thinking about it being a liquid. A few items to remember to watch the size on are: shampoo, conditioner, soap, sunscreen, any alcohol you are gifting or bringing with you, anything you are currently drinking, nail polish remover, vaseline/gel chapstick, some makeup, perfume, gel or spray deodorant, etc.

Some airports also require all of your liquids to fit in one quart-size clear bag which they may provide.

22. Don’t Pack Aerosol Cans (Bug Spray!)

Aerosol cans are not allowed through TSA. Though I have (accidentally) gotten away with it a few times, this includes even simple things like bug spray.

>>> TIP: use  Picaridin lotion  instead, or  bug-repellant wipes . 

23. Double Check the TSA’s List of Prohibited Items While Packing

Take a look at the TSA list of prohibited items while you are packing your carry-on. Familiarizing yourself with the list may save you some time and money from having to throw items away at security.

24. Have Your I.D. And Boarding Pass Out

You will have your I.D. and boarding pass checked before entering security. Have it out and ready to hand off as the line for security sometimes moves quickly.

25. Be Prepared to Take Your Shoes Off

In the U.S., most passengers need to remove their shoes for security. Those with TSA PreCheck , older than 75, or kids 12 and younger will not need to remove shoes.

26. Jewelry and Security

Small jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and rings can stay on through the scanner, but remove anything big and metal that might set off the sensor.

27. Take Any Personal Electronics Out of Your Bag (i.e. Laptop, iPad)

Remove any electronics and place them in the bins. If you have your laptop in a computer bag or case it will need to be fully taken out.

28. Take Off Your Belt

29. take off your jacket, 30. put your phone in the bin, 31. double-check your pockets, 32. make sure to drink or dump the water from your bottle, 33. listen to security personnel, they will help with what to do.

34. Moving Through the Scanner

Once all your belongings are moving through the security conveyor belt, you will be asked to step through a full-body scanner. Usually, you will spread your feet out and lift your hands above your head.

Next, you will be directed out of the scanner. Pause for a bit upon exiting until the security personnel clears you to pick up your belongings.

35. Pat Downs

On occasion, the scanner may pick something up, even if there is nothing there, or perhaps you forgot to remove something metal. The security personnel may use a handheld scanner or will lightly pat you down (following specific guidelines and boundaries to not be inappropriate).

It is a passenger’s right to refuse to be pat down, but you will not be allowed to fly if you don’t comply with TSA security checks.

36. What to Do if Your Bag Is Flagged

Having your bag flagged is not usually a big deal either. Little things might get picked up in the scanner that security wants to double-check, or perhaps you forgot a liquid that is too big.

Security personnel will ask you to step aside and ask to inspect your bag. You may have to pull some of your things out to let them search for what set off the alarms. Usually, this happens very quickly and you are on your way.

37. Duty-Free at the Airport

If you are questioning whether you can bring something on the plane or not, it is always a safer bet to just leave it at home and buy it at one of the many shops that are past security and what is known as “duty-free.” Duty-free refers to items that you do not have to pay import, sales, value-added, or other taxes on.

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FIRST TIME FLYER’S GUIDE TO BOARDING AND THE FLIGHT

38. reading your boarding pass.

Once you exit security, your next step will be to head to your gate . Your boarding pass (the printed version, not so much when it’s on your phone) usually lists your gate, the time that boarding starts, and your seat number.

39. Checking Airport Boards and Signs

There will be big electronic boards throughout the airport that list which flights are at which gate and if they are on time or delayed. I always cross-check my boarding pass with the electronic signs, because your gate might change.

Follow the signs around the airport that direct you to your gate. Again, when I arrive at the gate I check to see that my flight is indeed listed at the gate .

If you get there especially early, your gate might still be showing the flight before yours, in which case you will have to wait and keep an eye on the large boards to make sure nothing changes .

40. At Your Gate and Waiting

Once you reach your gate you are waiting until boarding starts. Find a seat and relax! Or, wander through the shops, find something to eat, or take a light walk to stretch your legs before your first flight.

41. Boarding Your Flight

Boarding zones:.

When your flight is ready to start boarding, the airport personnel will make announcements over the speaker or from the desk. Flights (especially larger ones) typically board by zone . Watch and listen for your zone to be called before getting in line to board. Your boarding pass will note what zone you are in.

Boarding Pass and I.D. Out:

Most flights at this point just check your boarding pass (since your I.D. was already checked at security), but I always keep my I.D. handy just in case.

42. Checking Carry-on Bags

If the flight is full, your flight might ask for volunteers to check their carry-on bags or will require some people to check bags if they don’t get enough volunteers. If they ask you to check your carry-on they won’t charge you (unless it is oversized and won’t fit in the cabin) and it’s not a big deal.

You will simply pick up the bag upon arrival as if you checked it like normal. Just don’t forget to take anything out of the bag that you might need during the flight!

43. Getting on the Plane

When you get on the plane, there is usually a flight attendant at the front who will guide first-time flyers to their seat or answer any questions. Otherwise, just walk to your seat and make sure to check above the seat for the letter that corresponds to the window, middle, or aisle seat.

There is a figure of a person on the diagram to show you where the aisle is.

Storing Baggage:

If you have a carry-on, put it in the bin above your seat. Make sure that it is rotated the proper way so it fits and the door will close over it. Put your personal item under the seat in front of you.

44. Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode

All electronics should be put on airplane mode before take-off, this is to ensure there is no interference with the airplane’s signals. Unless told by your flight attendant, you don’t have to turn your electronics all the way off.

Airplane WiFi:

Airplanes nowadays typically have WiFi available for passengers to purchase. You can ask your flight attendant what options they have available.

45. Listening to Airplane Emergency Measures

Flight attendants will either display or play a video about the emergency and safety measures of the aircraft. As a first-time flyer, you should pay attention to this guide in the very slim chance there is an emergency.

Don’t be alarmed by the message , they are required to go over safety but airplanes hardly ever encounter any issues.

46. In-Flight Service, Snacks, and Meals

Depending on your airline and the length of the flight, you might be served a snack and beverage or even a meal or two. All airlines have paid food options available that you can browse.

Budget airlines, especially on shorter flights, have started not giving anything out for free – this is why I recommend packing your own snacks! If you aren’t sure, ask your flight attendant what their options are.

47. Stay Hydrated

Flying always dehydrates you, so make sure to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to help prevent jet lag.

48. Relax and Enjoy!

Landing and what to do after your flight.

After landing, you may have to wait in your seat for a bit as the plane makes its way to the proper gate. The plane will deboard row by row from the front, just sit tight and wait your turn to exit.

49. Following Signs to Exit

When you exit the plane, you will want to follow the signs to the baggage claim and exit. If you didn’t check a bag, just head straight to the exit.

50. Understanding Baggage Claim

Once you reach baggage claim, there will be a few conveyor belts. Look for the one marked with your flight’s information, or look for an electronic board that has information. Depending on how fast you reach baggage claim, you may have to wait a bit.

51. Pick-up, Taxis, and Rideshares

Most airports now (especially bigger ones) have separate areas for passenger pick-up and Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Lyft, etc.). Follow the signs for what you need.

Some airports (such as Los Angeles) may even have you take a shuttle to get to the rideshares, in which case you shouldn’t call your ride until you make it to the designated area and know where to wait.

52. Layovers and Connecting Flights

If you have a layover or connecting flight, there will be separate signs pointing you in the right direction back towards the gates. Some airports will have you pass through security again, but many will not.

When you are checking your bag, make sure to ask if your bag will be checked through to your final destination . If you are on the same airline for both flights, this is pretty standard practice.

It can get a bit trickier when you switch airlines. If you need to pick up your bag, you will have to head to baggage claim and then back to the ticketing counter to check it for your next flight.

FIRST TIME FLYERS’ CHECKLIST

Summary: tips for flying on a plane for your first time.

Preparing for your first time flying is extremely helpful, but no two flights are ever the same , so don’t stress the little details too much! Each airport has its quirks and layouts, so follow signs, ask for help if you need it, and reference this first-time flyers guide.

For travel junkies like me, airports are fun to find interesting restaurants, fun souvenirs, or to people-watch and dream about your next vacation. Plus, it opens up a world for you to explore if you can get comfortable flying (especially now that remote jobs are changing the way we travel ). Enjoy your first flight!

Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad? CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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31 First Time Flying Tips: Your Guide To An Amazing Flight

• Updated September 5, 2024
• Posted in Travel Planning
• Tagged as Airplane Travel , Travel Organization

Welcome! If you’re about to embark on your first-ever flight, congratulations! Air travel can be an exciting and rewarding experience, opening up a world of new possibilities.

It’s natural, however, to feel a little anxious or uncertain, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the ins and outs of flying.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve gathered 31 invaluable first time flying tips to help make your journey as smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable as possible!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links , which just means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Planning Tips

Airport tips, money saving tips, entertainment tips, relaxation tips, our first time flying tips, 1. pack light.

We recommend weighing your checked luggage before leaving the house. Most airlines charge for any type of checked bag , and some airlines even charge for carry-on luggage.

It’s best to head over to the airline’s specific website to check the weight and size restrictions. When checking luggage, it’s very important to make sure you don’t exceed the weight restriction.

• Weigh your bag at home (or even while on vacation) using a luggage scale ( we prefer digital )!!
• Tip: If your bag exceeds the weight limit, redistribute some of the items between your checked and carry-on luggage.

2. Check the TSA Guidelines

• Check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for what is allowed in your carry-on luggage.
• Know what you can check vs carry on the airplane
• Pack your carry-on with extra clothing, toiletries, and medications (in case luggage is lost)
• Know the liquid restrictions: all liquids must be packaged in a 3.4oz container inside a quart-sized bag.

Knowing the TSA guidelines will save you time and prevent any unnecessary hold-ups at security.

3. Avoid Black Luggage

We’ve found that more colorful bags are, not only unique, but easier to recognize and keep track of in the airport.

For bags that you plan on checking, traveling is much simpler when your bags aren’t easily confused with other similar looking luggage. And most checked bags, from our experience, seem to be a darker color.

Don’t own colorful luggage? There are some ways to make your black bag stand out!

• Try using a brightly colored luggage strap
• Tie a colored ribbon to the handle

4. Choose Your Seat Wisely

If you choose the wrong seat, your flight may not be as enjoyable. Deciding on a seat where you can catch beautiful scenic views or one where you can stretch your legs can have a huge impact on your trip.

• For a short flight: choose the window seat for the views!
• For a longer flight: choose an aisle seat for that extra leg room!

5. Research Your Airline’s Policies

Every airline has their own set of rules and policies regarding baggage fees, flight changes, and cancellations. Become familiar with these so you aren’t surprised at the airport by any unexpected expenses.

Here are some things (not an exhaustive list) that you can research beforehand:

• Baggage Allowance (Number of bags, size restrictions, baggage fees)
• Check-in options
• Boarding zones/processes
• Security guidelines by TSA
• Complimentary services provided by airline (meals, entertainment, Wi-Fi)

6. Consider Wearing Compression Socks

Compression socks are designed to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. This is done by applying gradual pressure to your legs and helping to move blood back up to your heart.

During a flight, the reduced air pressure and limited mobility can cause blood to pool in your legs, leading to swelling and discomfort. I’ve found that wearing compression socks (particularly on longer flights > 5 hours) makes a big difference in how my legs feel.

You most likely can find the compression socks you need online or at your local pharmacy. If you have any circulatory disorder, however, we recommend consulting with your doctor first!

7. Pack Valuables/Essentials in Carry-On Luggage

We always keep our passport, ID, travel documents, medicine, electronics, an extra pair of clothes, and any valuable items in our carry-on.

In case our checked baggage gets lost or delayed (which rarely happens, but you never know), having these essentials with us means we can still carry on without much hassle.

It’ll make your trip much more enjoyable!

8. Keep Your Passport, ID, and Boarding Pass Readily Accessible

It’s really important to keep your passport, ID, and boarding pass readily accessible to ensure a smooth check-in process .

Having these documents close by also allows for a quick response to unexpected situations and easy proof of identity and travel authorization .

I found these super cute passport holders that I carry with us whenever we travel! I love how they have a place to hold our COVID-19 vaccinations card as well.

9. Keep Track of Lost Luggage

Consider investing in an AirTag if loosing luggage is a fear of yours.

What is an AirTag?

• Small tracking device developed by Apple that you can attach to your luggage to keep track of its location
• The Find My app on your iPhone or iPad can be used to locate the AirTag on your luggage
• Lost Mode can be enabled in the Find My app, allowing you to see the last known location of your AirTag on a map and receive alerts when its location is updated
• If your lost luggage with AirTag is found, the AirTag can be scanned with an iPhone or NFC-enabled device to view your contact information

10. Arrive Early

If it’s your first time flying, arriving early at the airport can help reduce any stress and anxiety. Unexpected delays, like long lines for check-in or security, can occur, so it’s wise to give yourself extra time to handle them without worrying about missing your flight.

• Arrive at least 1-2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights.
• Arrive 3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.
• Airlines start boarding about 30 minutes before departure.

By arriving early, you’ll give yourself enough time to navigate the airport, find your gate, and get settled before boarding begins.

11. Check in Online

Checking in online before your first flight can help make the check-in process at the airport smoother and less stressful. When you check in online, you can usually select your seat and print your boarding pass ahead of time , which can save you time and hassle at the airport.

Typically, you can check in starting 24 hours before boarding time. Go to the specific airline’s website and follow the prompts. It will guide you through the process! To save time, check in online!

If you choose to check in online, you should still be early for your flight. You don’t want to risk missing your departure time!

12. Use the Restroom before Boarding

We strongly recommend that you use the restroom prior to boarding.

This is something that we do before all flights, even if we don’t have to go to the bathroom at that time. Since you’re going to want to stay hydrated on your flight, using the bathroom prior to boarding may help lessen the number of times you have to go in flight.

If your flight is short, you may be in luck and not even have to use the plane’s restroom.

If you do need to go on board, you won’t be able to use the restroom immediately. You’ll have to wait until the plane has taken off, leveled off, and the pilot has turned of the seat belt sign.

13. Sign Up For Frequent Flyer Programs

Signing up for frequent flyer programs is a great idea, especially since it’s usually a free perk!

Frequent Flyer Program Perks:

• Earn points or miles for flights and redeem them for free travel or upgrades
• Priority services
• Access to airport lounges
• Special promotions

If you’re a loyal customer, you can quickly earn points or miles towards your next flight. If you tend to price shop, it’ll take a bit longer to redeem points for any travel upgrades.

14. Book Flights in Advance

The earlier you book your flights, the cheaper they tend to be. We also like to book our trips earlier so we can secure our preferred travel dates and destinations.

While we book our trips over a year in advance, we recommend booking any domestic flight 2-3 months in advance and any international trips 6 months in advance to get the best deals.

15. Use Price Comparison Websites

When we’re looking for the best deals on flights, hotels, and other travel services, we find using price comparison websites extremely helpful.

These websites gather information from different airlines, hotels, and travel agencies, making it easy for us to compare prices and find the most affordable options . It saves us a lot of time and effort , as we can quickly see the prices from multiple sources all in one place!

They also offer additional features like flexible date searches and fare alerts , which are really useful when we’re trying to find the best deals.

Price Comparison Websites To Try:

16. Fly Budget Airlines

Opting to fly with budget airlines, such as JetBlue, Southwest, or Spirit Airlines can be a smart choice if you’re looking to save money.

• More affordable ticket prices
• Customizable ticket options
• Fewer in-flight amenities
• Reduced legroom
• Stricter baggage allowance
• Additional fees may apply for services like seat selection or checked baggage

For short flights, flying budget airlines may be a good choice . For longer trips, you may want to opt for an airline that offers some more amenities and better leg room.

17. Pack Snacks

Bringing your own snacks on board a plane can help you save money, ensure that you have access to food that you like, and make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable.

Depending on the airline and the length of your flight, options for in-flight meals and snacks can be limited . Airline food is also not the healthiest . The food can be high in salt, sugar, and preservatives.

Lastly, food in the airport and in-flight can be pricey . If you’re looking for a budget-friendly travel tip, we recommend packing your own snacks and not purchasing the over priced airport food.

In-flight Snack Options:

• Granola bars
• Dried fruit
• Food without nuts (Passengers on-board may have a nut allergy)

18. Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card

When you use a travel rewards credit card for your flight purchases, you can e arn points, miles, or cash back that can be redeemed for various travel-related expenses . By using the card for everyday expenses and paying off the balance in full each month, you can accumulate rewards quickly.

Before choosing a travel rewards credit card, compare the available options and consider factors such as annual fees, interest rates, rewards programs, and any additional perks offered.

Look for cards that align with your travel preferences and offer rewards that are valuable to you.

19. Use Points to Pay for Your Flight

Many airlines and credit card companies offer reward programs that allow you to accumulate points or miles based on your spending or travel activities. These points can then be redeemed to cover the cost of your flight.

Before booking your flight, check if you have any accumulated points or miles that can be used towards the ticket price . Most airlines have loyalty programs that offer various benefits, including the ability to use points for flights. You can also explore credit cards that offer travel rewards and sign-up bonuses, which can help you earn points more quickly.

Using points to pay for your flight can save you a significant amount of money , especially if you’ve been accumulating points over time.

20. Bring a Book or E-Reader

Bringing a book or e-reader on your flight is a good way to keep yourself entertained and makes time go by faster. It’s also a great way to take your mind off of any nervousness you might feel about flying.

If you forget your favorite novel, you can probably buy a magazine or book from one of the shops in the airport (unless you’re flying at odd hours) .

If you’re looking to save money, bringing your own book is the way to go!

21. Download Movies and/or TV Shows Before Your Flight

Many airlines offer in-flight entertainment, but it’s always a good idea to have backup entertainment options.

Before your trip, use streaming platforms like Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , or Disney+ to download your favorite movies or TV shows onto your device. This way, you won’t have to rely on an internet connection or the in-flight entertainment system to enjoy your preferred content.

Remember to charge your device fully before the flight and bring any necessary chargers or power banks to keep your device powered throughout the journey!

22. Listen to Music or Podcasts

Before your flight, create a playlist of your favorite songs or podcasts that you’ve been wanting to listen to. Music can be uplifting and help relax your mind, while podcasts can be informative or entertaining.

Using your own headphones , you can escape into the world of music or immerse yourself in interesting podcast episodes.

It’s a great way to engage yourself during the flight and distract from any nervousness or anxiety you may have about flying.

23. Bring Your Own Headphones

Most airlines provide headphones for in-flight entertainment, but they may not be the most comfortable or have the best sound quality. By bringing your own headphones, you can enjoy your favorite music, movies, or shows with better sound clarity and a more personalized experience.

If possible, I recommend using over-ear or noise-canceling headphones . They can help block out the noise of the aircraft and create a more immersive and enjoyable audio experience. If you prefer earbuds, make sure they fit well and provide good sound quality.

• Be prepared for the two-pin socket utilized by most aircrafts . For this reason, you’ll probably need to invest in a converter if you plan to using your own headphones with the aircraft’s inflight entertainment system.

24. Avoid Ear Pain

The change in air pressure can cause pressure to build up in the ears, resulting in discomfort or even pain.

Ways to relieve ear discomfort:

• Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can really help.
• Yawn or swallow frequently during takeoff and landing to keep the Eustachian tubes open and release the pressure
• Valsalva maneuver : Pinch your nostrils and gently blow air through your nose
• Earplugs designed for flying that can help regulate the air pressure in your ears
• Stay hydrated to prevent dryness and ear discomfort

25. Combat Anxiety

If you’re feeling anxious about flying, you’re not alone! Do some relaxation exercises before flying to help yourself feel calmer.

• Deep breathing
• Visualization exercises as a form of meditation
• Distraction techniques – reading a book, listening to music, watching a moving during the flight

If your anxiety is more severe, you may want to consider talking to your doctor or a mental health professional about therapy and/or medication options.

26. Know The Trick to Jet Lag

Jet lag occurs when you quickly travel to a new time zone, causing fatigue and insomnia. Nothing is worse than getting to your destination and being completely exhausted.

When traveling to new time zones, our internal clocks get mixed up, partially due to a difference in the exposure of light. One way to alleviate this is by getting outside soon after flying.

Exposure to daylight reduces melatonin that is produced, a natural hormone that makes you sleepy when released. By effecting the release of melatonin, sunlight exposure can help you stick to the schedule in your new time zone.

There are also melatonin products that you can help to help you sleep if you’re struggling to do so.

Also, it’s important to stay hydrated. Dehydration can make jet lag worse!

27. Dress Comfortably

It’s very rare that I “dress to impress” when flying. Wearing comfortable clothing and shoes can greatly enhance your travel experience.

• Wear loose-fitting clothing so you can easily move around and get comfortable on the plane
• Wear comfortable shoes ! You’ll need a pair of shoes that can easily be taken on and off to go through security, but you should also be prepared to walk long distances through the airport
• And layer! The temperature on airplanes always vary. Be sure to carry a lightweight jacket in case you’re cold.

28. Stay Hydrated

Airplanes can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Whenever we fly, I like to bring an empty water bottle with me. Once we get through the security line, I can fill up my bottle at the next water fountain.

Not only will this save you money in the airport, but it will also come in handy when cruising and just traveling in general. I’ve trialed several types of water bottles and have found ones that are lighter weight , can be clipped or attached , and portable the most convenient for vacations. I even found one that is collapsible and will easily fit inside of book bags and purses!

Travel tip: Bring an empty water bottle to fill up once you pass security.

29. Listen to the Safety Briefing

Listening to the safety briefing on the airplane can help calm your nerves during a flight, especially if this is your first time flying!

When the flight attendants begin the briefing, make a conscious effort to pay attention and follow along. They will provide important information about the safety features of the aircraft and the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

By familiarizing yourself with these details, you’ll gain a better understanding of the safety measures in place, which can help alleviate any anxiety or fear you may have.

30. Use a Calming App

If you’re flying for the first time and are experiencing some anxiety, you can try downloading a calming app to your phone to promote relaxation. The apps offer guided meditations, soothing sounds, and/or breathing exercises that are designed specifically for stress reduction.

Some apps you can download are:

• Flying with Claustrophobia

31. Bring a Neck Pillow and Blanket

There’s nothing worse than being cold or uncomfortable on a flight. A good idea is to bring some versatile pieces, like a sarong , that can be used as a blanket and re-worn outdoors.

An extra pair of socks is also nice to have. In addition to the compression socks, why not bring some big and fluffy socks to keep your toes warm?! This is especially helpful on those really long flights!

We hope these first time flying tips will relieve any anxiety and nervous energy you may be experiencing. Have fun and safe travels!

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And please do me a little favor and share this article with others, for there’s a good chance that it will help them with their travels !

First Time Flying Tips FAQ’s

What must you do 30 minutes before a flight.

Before a flight, there are important tasks to complete around 30 minutes prior to departure. Check-in, go through security, keep your boarding pass and ID accessible, arrive at the boarding gate, inquire about seat availability, prepare your carry-on items, and stay updated on any announcements.

Arriving early and allowing extra time is crucial for a smooth travel experience.

Do I really need to arrive 2 hours before a flight?

The recommended arrival time before a flight is generally at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled departure time. While it may not always be necessary to arrive a full 2 hours before, it’s still important to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and potential unforeseen circumstances.

Do I need to print my boarding pass?

Printing your boarding pass is not always necessary. Many airlines now offer electronic boarding passes, which can be accessed and displayed on your smartphone or mobile device. These electronic boarding passes usually include a barcode or QR code that can be scanned at various checkpoints throughout your journey, including security and boarding gates.

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7 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Flyers

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Flying on an airplane for the first time — or the first time in a long while — can be an exciting, life-changing adventure. But it can also be incredibly stressful.

You want to head for the gate with the swagger of a seasoned traveler, but that's hard to pull off when you don't know how much it costs to check a bag, or what to expect when you go through airport security.

So how can you deal? Reviewing these tips before takeoff can boost your confidence, making your trip easier and more worry-free.

Best advice for first-time flyers

1. check the airline's luggage requirements.

It’s easy to overpack — but if you do, it could cost you. Before your flight, visit your airline’s website to review luggage size and weight restrictions, as well as baggage fees. While these vary by airline and fare paid, here's what you can typically bring with a standard fare on a major airline:

Two carry-on items for free: one full-size carry-on the size of a small rolling suitcase or smaller, and one small personal item, such as a purse or backpack.

One checked suitcase (often, one weighing under 50 pounds) for $35 to $40. Checking additional bags could cost more.

If your carry-on bag is too bulky, you may have to pay to check it. Likewise, if your checked bag is over a certain size, you may have to pay a higher-than-usual fee to check it. It's best to avoid these surprises, if possible.

"If you’re a nervous flyer, little things can really set you off,” says Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie of New York City, founder of the travel blog The Globetrotting Teacher . “Even if it’s not a big deal, and you get to the check-in counter, and they say, ‘Oh, by the way, there’s a $35 bag fee,’ and you weren’t expecting that, that could just be something that rattles you."

Remember, if you pack light enough , you could avoid baggage fees altogether.

Having an airline credit card can mean waived checked baggage fees, as well. For example:

on American Express' website

on Chase's website

on Bank of America's website

$0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

$0 intro for the first year, then $95 .

First checked bag free for you and up to eight others on your reservation. Terms apply.

First checked bag free for you and a companion traveling on your reservation.

First checked bag free for you and up to four others traveling on your reservation.

First checked bag free for you and up to three others traveling on your reservation.

First checked bag free for you and up to six others traveling on your reservation.

2. Pack essentials in your carry-on

If you’re packing anything that’s hard to replace — say, prescription medicine, contacts or glasses, or important paperwork — put it in your carry-on bag. This way, you won’t be without that item in the rare event your checked bag goes missing. You'll also want to pack some in-flight entertainment, such as your laptop, headphones and a book or magazine.

Just make sure you’re following the Transportation Security Administration’s rules for what you can pack . You can’t, for example, bring a big bottle of contact lens solution in your carry-on, but you can bring a 3.4-ounce bottle. And keep in mind that if your carry-on bag is too big to fit under the seat in front of you, you may have to check it. More rules may apply if you're flying internationally.

» MORE: 10 ways to minimize mix-ups on your first trip abroad

“The overhead compartments fill up quickly,” says Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com, an online travel agency based in Calabasas, California. “If you’re in the back of the plane, you might find that there’s no more room, and you’ll have to do a gate check of your bag at the last minute, which isn’t particularly fun." Checking your bag at the gate means your full-sized carry-on bag will travel with the other checked bags during the flight, rather than in the overhead bin.

3. Arrive at the airport two hours early

Catching a plane isn’t like catching a bus; it’s a much longer process. In fact, the TSA recommends showing up at least two hours before takeoff for domestic travel, and three hours for international travel.

Ultimately, you need to give yourself enough time to get your boarding pass, check your bags and go through security before your plane starts boarding. Sometimes, that takes 10 minutes. Other times, especially during peak travel times, it can take much longer.

It’s worth keeping in mind that boarding the plane isn’t a free-for-all, either. Airlines typically start boarding passengers 30 minutes before takeoff in groups. Generally, a boarding time will be printed on your ticket.

4. Keep your ID handy

Decades ago, airport security was relatively lax. “There was one point where you could just walk up to a gate, whether you were flying or not, whether you had ID or not,” Klee says. Nowadays, TSA agents check IDs for passengers over 18.

Save time by having your ID card, driver’s license or passport handy as soon as you step foot into the airport. You’ll need it when checking bags and going through security, and you don’t want to hold up the line while rummaging through your wallet.

5. Wear easy-to-remove shoes

Going through airport security might be the most stressful part of flying — but if you know what to expect, the whole rigmarole can feel much less taxing. Typically, unless you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry , you have to:

Remove your shoes (unless you’re 12 and under or 75 and older).

Empty the contents of your pockets and remove your hat, belt, jacket, wallet and bulky jewelry

Remove your laptop and liquids from your bag.

Send these items — and your carry-on bag — through an X-ray machine.

Walk through a metal detector or a body scanner (or opt for a pat-down).

Preparing for this — say, by wearing shoes you can easily slip on and off and making sure the items in your carry-on are TSA-compliant — can make the process faster.

WANT TSA PRECHECK FOR FREE?

A number of popular travel credit cards reimburse you for the application fee for trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. Among them:

Statement credit of up to $100 as reimbursement when you charge the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to the card. Available once every 4 years.

Statement credit of up to $100 as reimbursement when you charge the application fee for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS to the card. Available once every 4 years.

Statement credit of up to $120 as reimbursement when you charge the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to the card. Available once every 4 years.

If your credit card offers reimbursement for the application fee for programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you must pay the fee with the card. You cannot submit a claim for reimbursement if you paid with some other method. Reimbursement will usually appear as a statement credit in your account within two months.

Cards typically offer reimbursement of only one fee once every four to five years. Check the terms and conditions of your card for the specific rules that apply. Note also that these cards only reimburse the application fee for a trusted traveler program. They don't automatically enroll you in the program or guarantee that you'll be accepted by the program. You still have to apply and go through the required screening, which in the case of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry includes an in-person appointment.

Aeroplan® Credit Card .

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® .

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card .

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card .

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card .

United Club℠ Infinite Card .

United℠ Explorer Card .

United Quest℠ Card .

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card .

Terms apply.

» SEE the best credit cards that pay for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

6. Respect other passengers' space

These days, flights are generally fully booked, and most seats offer limited legroom. This might stress out your fellow flyers, so be sensitive.

“If any of your stuff or body parts are going into another space that’s not yours, you really have to be mindful of that,” Sills-Dellegrazie says. “It can be as simple as, you put your ponytail over the top of the seat and now it’s hanging … across someone’s TV screen, and you don’t even realize it."

Similarly, if you wear perfume or cologne, eat smelly foods or listen to loud music, you might unintentionally upset the person sitting next to you. Of course, you can't plan for everything — maybe you're traveling with an upset child, for example — but do what you can to avoid an in-flight faux pas.

The call for respect doesn't stop once the plane parks at the gate. Though it might not necessarily be the most efficient, many travelers and etiquette experts say that you should wait your turn upon disembarking , allowing the rows in front of you to exit before you do. And — there's no need to rush to get your bag only to stand in the aisle and rub elbows with everyone else.

7. Have a backup plan ready

Now for a game of “worst-case scenario,” first-time flyer edition: What happens if you miss your flight or your flight gets delayed or canceled ?

First, take a deep breath.

If you miss your plane because of unforeseen circumstances, such as a major traffic delay, the airline will often put you on standby for the next flight without charging extra. Just remember that you generally need to notify the airline within a couple of hours of missing your flight to get rebooked for free.

If it looks like you'll miss a connecting flight , check the smartphone app offered by your airline or the screen in the airport to find out which gate your flight departs from, and whether you've actually missed it. If the flight is delayed, you may still have a chance to board. If you miss the connection and the airline was responsible, you can generally also rebook that flight free of charge — and maybe even get some free meal or hotel vouchers for the hassle.

Smart travelers mitigate the risks of unexpected travel disruptions by booking their flights using a credit card with travel insurance or purchasing a separate standalone travel insurance policy .

In general, be proactive. Have the airline's customer service phone number handy in case you get stuck in traffic, so you can call as soon as possible. Or if you're already at the airport, go to the customer service desk and asking about rebooking. Missing a flight can be a setback, but it doesn’t have to derail your travel plans.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , see this page .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

First Time Flying Alone? Our Step-By-Step Guide For First Time Fliers

Last Updated on September 14, 2023

Key Takeaways

• Its normal to feel anxious about flying alone for the first time
• Flying is a safe way to travel
• You can reduce the anxiety of flying alone for the first time by being prepared
• Rehearse what you will do at each stage of the journey to prevent confusion
• Ask for help, let the airport staff and cabin crew know it’s your first time and you are nervous

Airports, and planes can be intimidating places, especially when it is your first time flying.

There are all the rules and regulations and the mean-looking security agents. There’s the fear of getting lost in the airport and missing your flight.

There’s plenty to make you feel a bit nervous and apprehensive.

And there’s the fact that you’re about to fly 6 or 7 miles up in the sky!

It’s only natural to have questions and qualms.

If some of the tips on this guide seem obvious… that was deliberate.

We wanted to write a guide in simple language to help first-time fliers so you know what to expect.

Your first flight should go exactly as you imagine. Because we’re going to tell you every little detail, so you won’t get any surprises.

We divided the guide into sections. You can jump ahead to any area you want to read about.

Before The Airport

At the airport, on the plane, after landing, frequently asked questions.

Let’s jump in!

Your flight preparation begins long before you reach the airport. Especially if this is your first time on a plane.

Step 1 – Check The Date Of Expiration On Your Passport

US citizens don’t always require a passport to fly domestically, but you will need some form of ID. Check what ID you will require and make sure it will be valid on the date you’re planning to travel. Forgetting to check that their ID is still valid is a classic beginners mistake.

If it’s your first time flying internationally then make sure your remember your passport!

Step 2 – Booking Your Flight

Flights are usually cheaper if you book them 1-4 months in advance. I won’t go into how to find cheap flights , etc., because that’s a whole other topic.

Let’s just assume you have booked your 1st flight and it’s getting closer to the date of travel.

Step 3 – Learn About Flight Safety

Even if you’re a first time flyer I bet you’ve seen a flight safety demonstration sometime before. This is the talk that the flight attendant gives a few minutes before take-off.

But everyone knows the best time to study is not right before the exam! The best time to learn what to do in a plane crash or “emergency landing” is not 10 minutes before it happens!

So now that you’ve booked your flight and it’s really happening you should go ahead and memorize these tips.

Learn these basic safety points now, days or weeks before your first flight! Not when you are sitting on the plane 5 minutes before take-off!

These bullet points tell you what you should know. Since we are not an airline we won’t sugar coat things. There is no need to be scared of flying, all the same, memorize these tips, knowing that you are prepared will help to ease your anxiety.

• Keep Your Seatbelt Buckled – If the window near you broke and you were not wearing your seatbelt you could be sucked out of the window. Yes, it’s horrific and sadly has happened. But your seat belt would keep you safe. When you sit down buckle your belt. Only unbuckle it if you go to the toilet or want to stretch your legs. In extreme turbulence, you can even fly out your seat and crack your head. These horror stories are very rare so don’t worry. But if you are sitting down just buckle up. It’s the most sensible option.
• At Altitude There Is Not Oxygen So Grab That Oxygen Mask Quickly – When you are 6 miles high in the sky there is not enough oxygen to breathe. Airplanes keep the cabin artificially pressurized so that the air you are breathing has enough oxygen. But if a window were to break or there was some other leak all the air in the cabin and the oxygen would rush out the window. If this happened an oxygen mask would automatically drop down above your head and you’d use this to breathe. You put it on yourself first and then any children after. You have about 18 seconds to put this mask on before you lose consciousness. Meanwhile, the pilot will be taking the plane to a lower altitude. Once you are at a lower altitude there will be oxygen in the air again. Loss of cabin pressure is not a reason to panic. It doesn’t mean you are going to crash. Just put the mask on quickly if you see it and remain calm. You are learning this now so that when you are given the safety demo you already know what they are talking about and why.
• Falling Objects Hurt So Be Careful Using The Overhead Bins – This is probably the most dangerous part of flying. If you are putting luggage in overhead bins be careful of the heads below! It’s easy for things to fall out and hit people. I once went to get my phone out my carry on and dropped it on my flight neighbors head! He yelped and it was extremely awkward. You could do a lot of damage dropping a 30 lb suitcase on someones head so watch what you are doing here. If you need help lifting your case ask for it! For safety reasons pack a lighter case too!
• Emergency Exits Are Crucial – A lot of people think that flight safety doesn’t matter because all plane crashes are fatal. This couldn’t be more wrong. Many flights crash without fatalities. In fact most plane accidents are not fatal. If you do crash land you might need to get out fast to avoid fires, smoke, or flooding. You should always know where your nearest exit is. We advise booking a seat near an exit! You are learning this so you can NOT worry about it. You are learning it so you know what to do when you fly for the first time!
• Try Not To Break Any Bones By The Brace Position – This relates to the point above. The brace position is a way of sitting in your seat that will reduce the chances of you breaking any bones or being knocked unconscious in a crash. After a crash there may only be 60 – 90 seconds to get everyone out of the plane before fire or smoke causes death. You don’t want to be trying to make that escape with 2 broken legs. Learn the brace position now. Memorize it. Don’t leave it until 5 minutes before your 1st flight.
• Your Carry On Bag Is Not Important – Again this relates to a potential evacuation. There is nothing in your carry on bag that is more valuable than your life or the lives of your fellow passengers. If you are evacuating your flight DO NOT consider taking your luggage with you. Remember every second could be important.

Okay, that’s the end of the scary section!

But you shouldn’t let these safety tips scare you or make you more anxious about flying.

Here are some crib notes to pin to Pinterest or safe so you remember.

Flying on a plane is a very safe way to travel and you probably take greater risks all the time without realizing.

So don’t freak out about these safety lessons. It’s all about being prepared for your first time flying in a plane.

You learned to look left and right when crossing the road. And these tips are just the equivalent for when you are flying in a plane.

This video from American Airlines is a good example of a flight safety video.

Step 4 – Your Phone Plan

Okay, take a breather… let’s get back to more simple planning points…

Is your phone going to work where you are headed? Don’t make the mistake of not planning ahead and paying expensive roaming charges.

You might need to let your cell phone provider know if you are traveling internationally. Or you might need to get your phone unlocked so it can take a local sim card.

Think about it before flying for the first time.

Step 5 – Arranging Currency

This one only applies if you are leaving the country. You might want to arrange to have some cash in the currency of the country you are going to.

Or check if your bank card will work and what charges you will encounter.

Let your bank know if you will be traveling internationally and plan on using your card.

Step 6 – Packing Your Case

Luggage is a great source of anxiety for many people when traveling. There are so many horror stories about lost luggage. And imagine arriving somewhere without any clothes to wear!

We recommend traveling with carry-on luggage only. Especially for first-time fliers. It’s cheaper than checking a bag and it’s one less thing to worry about. If you can travel light it will help to keep things easier for your first flight.

If it suits you might feel better with a backpack strapped on your back. I often feel more secure with my luggage strapped to me. That way I don’t worry that someone will grab my case and run off with it.

When you fly with carry-on luggage you take your bag onto the flight cabin with you. It never leaves your side. You either store it under the seat in front of you or in the overhead storage bins. Don’t freak out, your bag doesn’t have to go in the bin directly above you. You can put it anywhere that you see a space.

But keep an eye on your bag and even tie a ribbon or something unique to your bag. There have been reports of in-flight theft where other passengers open your bag and remove belongings during the flight! We recommend putting a lock on your carry-on luggage so nobody can tamper with it while you are staring out the window.

Using the space under the seat in front of you is sometimes convenient but you can’t take such a big bag when you do that. This also impacts your legroom. It might work for short flights but is probably best avoided for long flights.

Noise-canceling headphones can really increase your comfort in a plane. It’s noisy in there because of the engine noise and air noise.

They also let you enjoy your stuff on Netflix that you have downloaded because you’ll be better able to hear the voices, get absorbed in a good drama and forget you are 6 miles up in the sky flying at 500 mph in an aluminum can. Getting stuck into your favorite show is a great way to feel a bit more normal when you are a first-time flier.

They’re not essential for short flights but for longer flights they are really great to have for comfort. The same goes for other comfort aids like pillows and sleep masks.

Make sure you don’t pack anything that you are not allowed in the cabin. Check the TSA rules if you are not sure about anything.

And check with your airline about the size and weight allowances for your luggage. Some airlines will allow 1 carry-on bag and 1 small personal item, but this depends on which airline you are flying with.

Step 7 – Checking In

It’s getting closer to experience your first time flying. You should let the airline know you are still coming. You can usually check-in online. Most airlines allow you to check-in online in the 24 hours preceding your departure time.

It’s at this point that you often get to choose your seat if you didn’t choose when you bought your ticket.

When you check-in online you will be given a boarding pass. This can be emailed to you or sometimes it will be in the airline’s app. You can print this out if you want but you don’t need to you can usually show the boarding pass at the airport using your cell phone.

If you are checking larger suitcases into the hold of the aircraft you will still go to the check-in desk to hand over your bags. Sometimes this is a little faster if you have checked in online since they won’t have to print your boarding pass.

If you are checking a bag make sure that you will be able to easily identify it. A unique luggage tag or a scarf tied to the handle can help with this.

Step 8 – Choosing Your Seat

The seats closest to the front are often the most in-demand. That’s because it’s easy to get on and off the aircraft.

Flying for the first time is thrilling. And modern aviation is extremely safe .

Frequent fliers often take an aisle seat because it’s easy to go to the toilet and you don’t need to disturb other passengers if you want to get up.

As a first-time flier, you will want to experience all the magic.

It has to be a window seat!

Seats in the rear where you get good views but can also see the wing can provide some stunning views and great Instagram pics.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Window airplane (@windowairplane) on Aug 14, 2019 at 5:09pm PDT

Also with a window seat can be great for longer flights as it allows you to lean your head against the wall.

If you are tall you might want to try to get an exit row seat. These seats have a little extra legroom. However, if this is your first time flying we don’t recommend it. You may be expected to open the exit door in the event of an emergency. I don’t think that’s pressure you want on your first time flying!

You can also calculate what side of the airplane the sun will be shining on and choose a seat on the other side to avoid the glare.

This is pretty simple if you are flying north to south. Or south to north.

In the morning the sun is in the east. So if you’re flying from north to south the sun will be on the left side of the plane in the morning and the right side of the plane in the afternoon.

As to figuring it out for international flights heading east to west well that’s for a more advanced guide!

Step 9 – Getting To The Airport

It’s usually best to arrive at least two hours before your flight.

If you are not checking luggage and not flying internationally you can sometimes arrive 60 minutes before your flight.

But this is your first flight so why not arrive 3 hours before? There is no sense in running to beat the clock when it is your first flight. You can master that once you are a pro.

If you are parking then consider not parking directly near the airport. It will be expensive. You can usually find places to park nearby that offer a shuttle bus.

Often the best way to travel to the airport for your first flight is to ask someone to take you or to use public transport. Then parking your car will be one less thing to worry about!

Having company and someone to chat to on the way to the airport will take your mind off worrying about your first flight.

Step 10 – Checking In

If you didn’t check-in online the first thing you do at the airport is look for “Departures” and then find the check-in counter for the airline you are flying with.

This is where you will hand over any large bags that are going into the airport hold (that’s what the call the trunk of the plane).

Don’t let anyone else pack your bag for you. You are responsible for what is inside your bag. You should know everything that is inside it.

Step 11 – Going Through Security

After check-in (online or in-person) you will have your boarding pass whether in printed or digital form.

This is your ticket to get on the plane and you may need to scan a barcode on your boarding pass before you enter the security.

Don’t waste time going for a coffee now. Your next priority is to get through the security check. Sometimes this can take a while so it’s better to do is as soon as possible.

If you are taking only carry-on luggage and are not checking any bags you can go straight to security as soon as you arrive at the airport.

Security can feel intrusive and a little stressful. Everyone lines up like cattle and goes through security gates.

When you get to the front of the line you need to put your luggage onto the conveyor belt so it can go through the x-ray machine.

You might need to take your shoes off at airport security so wear easy-to-remove shoes.

You will put all your belongings into a tray i.e. your phone, your keys, your purse, any coins, any belt that you have on. You are required to take your laptop and any liquids out of your bag too. This is so they can be easily scanned and inspected.

Remember the 311 rule . Liquids must be in bottles smaller than 3.4 oz (100ml). You can put them in a 1-quart transparent bag. Each passenger can only have 1 bag!

Keep in mind that these security checks are there for your own safety! It might be intrusive and annoying to go through airport security but it’s much better to make sure nothing dangerous is getting inside the cabin.

Just because the Transport Security Administration is there doing their job doesn’t mean that something bad is going to happen. They are there to stop something bad happening! So when you see them be grateful that the TSA is protecting you.

Step 12 – Finding Your Gate

Once you’ve made it through security don’t make the mistake of thinking you now just need to wait for your flight to be called.

Airports are often large places. Audio announcements don’t always cover the whole airport.

You will probably need to check the information screens to find out which gate you should go to.

Find your gate and go there.

Step 13 – Waiting To Be Called

You’ve made it through security and you’ve found your gate. Now is your chance to relax a bit and wait for your gate to open and boarding to begin.

You might double back to a cafe that you saw and get a coffee or a snack. It depends on how much time you have. But you’ll know where you are supposed to be going and you can use this time to relax and prepare for your flight.

Step 14 – Getting In Line For The Gate

Once boarding has been announced the herd all rush to stand in line. They want to be on the plane first to fight for a place to put their luggage in the overhead bin.

There is some logic to this, sometimes if a flight is very full and space is limited in the overhead bins you might be asked to check your bag at the gate.

If you have a smaller bag that can go under the seats you won’t need to do this.

Your actual seat will have been allocated so you don’t need to rush to get a good seat.

At this point the faster you get on the plane just means the longer you will need to sit in your seat.

It’s a good idea to pack a folded up bag. This way if you are forced to check your carry on you can remove any valuables or breakables and take them onto the plane with you.

Step 15 – From The Gate To The Plane

There are a few different ways to go from the gate to the plane. Sometimes you just walk across the tarmac.

Other times everyone squeezes into a little bus to go from the gate to the plane. These bus rides are often ridiculously short. For example, you all squeeze into a bus, and the bus drives 50 yards to the plane and you all get off. If this happens to you, enjoy it… human beings can be so silly sometimes.

Sometimes when the plane can park near to the terminal building you just walk across a special passenger boarding bridge. You don’t even go outside, just straight from the airport into the plane.

Just follow the herd here and you won’t go wrong. You’re not going to get lost or anything.

Keep your boarding card and your ID handy. You may need to show it when boarding the plane.

Cabin crew will welcome you as you board the plane.

If you are feeling especially nervous don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and let them know it’s your first time flying on a plane. Flight attendants are trained to deal with nervous passengers and they will appreciate you letting them know and will be able to reassure you.

Just don’t block the aisle when you are having the conversation, let people get to their seat.

Step 16 – Finding Your Seat

Make a point of checking where your seat actually is on the plane before you go to the airport. You can check airplane seating maps at SeatGuru . Is it on the left or the right side of the aisle? Are you at the front, back or middle of the plane? Be prepared before you walk down the aisle for the first time.

Often the aisles are too narrow to roll a carry-on bag down. You might need to carry your bag to make progress. This is another good reason to travel light . If you have a 4-wheeled spinner carry-on it’s best to turn your bag and wheel it sideways if possible.

The rows are numbered and the seats have a letter designation. So find your row first and then find your seat.

There is a chance you might find someone sitting in your seat. People make mistakes, or sometimes they are just being sneaky. Just check your boarding pass to be sure you have the right seat and then let them know they might be sitting in your seat.

If you have any problems just ask the flight attendant for assistance. You are entitled to sit in the seat that is written on your boarding pass. Don’t let anyone bully you!

Step 17 – Stowing Your Bag

If you have opted for a smaller bag like a duffel bag, a backpack or a large tote you’ll be able to put it under the seat in front of you.

We recommend under-seat luggage for first-time fliers if they are not taking a lot of luggage. It’s the most stress-free way to stow your bag. The space under the seat in front of you is always empty. You don’t need to compete with other passengers for that space.

Failing that you’ll need to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. It’s best if you don’t need to go into your bag during the flight. So you should have kept anything you need like a tablet or a book in a smaller bag.

If you need help lifting your bag just ask someone. And remember… don’t drop your luggage on anyone’s head!

These moments are usually the most stressful part of the flight. It can feel a little claustrophobic. Everyone is trying to find their seat and stow their bag at the same time. But don’t worry this only lasts a few minutes and the actual flight won’t be scary at all.

Get settled in. Put your phone into flight mode. Enjoy the flight safety demonstration. Very soon you’ll take to the sky for the first time.

Step 18 – Take Off

In a plane, you don’t really get to see a lot during take-off. You will feel the acceleration push you back into your seat a little but it’s quite gentle.

It doesn’t feel like a rollercoaster or anything like that. Many people around you won’t even look up from their books or magazines. If you’ve ever been in a car and the driver has put the pedal to the floor it feels similar to that. But you can’t see the road ahead or worry about bends in the road or obstacles.

You will most likely have been on scarier taxi rides!

You will hear the noise of the wheels on the tarmac.

Look out the window once you start to climb. It’s strangely calm as you soar high into the sky. I’m sure if you were sitting out on the wing it would feel crazy, but inside the plane looking out your little window, it will feel smooth and safe.

After a few minutes, the acceleration will decrease and the plane will level out. You’ll feel the gentle force pushing you back into your seat go away.

Here is a little fact that I want you to remember at this point. There are more than 100,000 flights every single day. That’s more than 100,000 successful take-offs every single day. The odds of something bad happening are extremely remote. Enjoy this miracle of flight, you’re up in the air doing something that all your ancestors throughout the ages could only dream about doing.

The air pressure in the cabin changes during take-off and landing. This can lead to an imbalance between the pressure inside your ears and sinuses and outside in the cabin. It’s called airplane ear and can feel a bit uncomfortable.

This can usually be relieved by “popping your ears” you can read about this here if you want .

You can fix this by chewing gum or pinching your nose and blowing . You will release the pressure from your ears and start to feel normal again!

That’s you up in the air. The hardest part of your flight now will be fighting the boredom and the discomfort from sitting for a long time in an seat without changing position.

Time to get your Netflix on!

Using Toilets

You will see a light above you with a seatbelt sign.

When the pilot has turned the seatbelt light off, this doesn’t mean that you should unbuckle your seatbelt.

It means that you can unbuckle your seatbelt if you need to stand up to stretch your legs or use the toilet.

Once you’ve returned from the toilet buckle your belt again, it could save your life. If the belt is uncomfortable, allow some slack rather than unbuckling.

Check this handy video for a walkthrough of an aircraft toilet.

And this is how the toilet flushes. Don’t be alarmed by the sound. And no it doesn’t just dump the poop into the sky. This vacuum sucks the waste into a holding tank that is emptied after the plane lands.

Okay, I will be honest with you. Landings are a little scarier than take-off. That’s mainly because of the bump that sometimes happens when you hit the ground.

Cabin crew will tell you to put your phones away and to close the table in front of you. The seatbelt sign will come back on but you will have had your belt on anyway.

Psychologically there is always the worry that when you touch the ground something will go wrong. What if the pilot approaches too fast? What if you can’t stop before the end of the runway?

That’s because you are not a pilot.

Yes, sometimes there is quite a bump when you hit the ground, but if you were a trained pilot or experience flier you’d know that this is perfectly normal.

The thing to understand is that a safe landing does not need to be a soft, gentle landing . A bit of a bump when you hit the ground is perfectly normal.

What this video by Mentour Pilot if you want reassurance. He says that about 30% of his landings are a “firm landing” and that it’s more common when the runway is shorter.

And now for the most infuriating part of the flight…

Seconds after the flight has landed, while the plane is still rolling along the runway other passengers will (against explicit instructions) turn on their phones and start calling people.

They’ll stand up and start trying to pull suitcases out the bins.

They’ll be ready to go a good 10 minutes before the doors are going to open. These are the same people who were desperate to get into the aircraft. Now they are desperate to get off!

These people are not going to get off the plane any quicker than you are. There is no reason for their behavior. It’s just that sometimes people are dumb! 🙂

Take some deep breaths! You just completed your first flight! You flew through the sky like a god or a superhero. Well done!

Just stay sitting in your seat while the plane drives to where it needs to park. This is a good time to have a window seat because you don’t need to worry about dumbasses trying to clamber past you.

You’ll feel a little funny when you put your feet back on the tarmac, back on solid ground. Because you’ll still be in a state of awe about what just happened.

Eventually, the plane will park where it needs to go and you’ll get to exit the plane. People will be rude they won’t let other people out their rows. They’ll push forward so they can get out faster.

Follow the herd, they’ll know where to go. You might need to go and collect checked bags at the baggage claim area. If you do watch for your case on the conveyor belt and lift it off when you see it. This is when that luggage tag will be handy.

You might need to go to passport control if you flew internationally.

But you can handle it all now… Your first flight…. You did it! I hope you never forget the magic of flying.

• Is it scary to fly in a plane? – Take off and landing provide a few moments where you might get jitters. But once a plane is up and moving you mostly don’t even notice that you are moving. Flying in a plane is less scary than riding on a bus or in a car.
• Can I use my phone on a plane? – You can use a phone but it must be in airplane mode during the flight.
• Can you bring water on a plane? – You can bring water on a plane but you can’t take water through airport security . This means you need to buy some water in the shop after you have cleared security. You can then bring this water onto the plane with you. Liquids are tightly controlled. You can’t take liquids through the TSA security check point that are in bottles greater than 3.4 oz or 100ml.
• Do planes have WIFI? – Some planes have wifi but it’s always best to download videos or other forms of entertainment before you take-off. I would not trust in-flight wifi to provide my entertainment.
• Can I bring snacks on a plane? – You can bring solid snacks on a plane but food that is spreadable is considered a liquid.
• What’s the 311 rule? – The 311 rule is that you can bring liquids in bottles smaller than 3.4 oz, you can put these bottles in 1 clear quart-sized bag , and it is 1 bag per person.
• Can you watch Netflix on a plane? – Yes, but it is best to download the shows you want to watch before you fly . Don’t rely on any airlines wifi.
• What documents do I need to fly? – Contact your airline’s customer service for the best information. You will need your boarding pass which you got at check-in. If you are flying internationally you will need your passport. Domestic flights in the US will still need ID.
• What does Turbulence feel like? – Pilots are not afraid of turbulence because it’s impossible for turbulence to cause a crash. You don’t need to be afraid of it either. Turbulence feels like when you are on a train, or in a car and you go over a bump. Usually, it’s just small bumps but it is possible in extreme turbulence to fly out your seat. Buckle up whenever you are seated.
• What can you not bring on an airplane? – You can’t bring knives or any weapons. You can’t bring things that you can make bombs with. You can’t bring large quantities of liquids or pastes.
• How do you sleep on a plane? – Often with great difficulty! Window seats are better because you can lean your head against the window. Try to find a good flight pillow and noise-canceling headphones.

Don’t Be Afraid Of The Unknown

Statistically flying is very safe. The experience itself is not hair-raising. It’s not a rollercoaster, it’s really quite boring.

I won’t go so far as to say there is nothing to be afraid of.

You do put your own safety in the hands of others. The engineers, the pilots, the cabin crew, the TSA security agents and all the other people involved in making 100,000 flights happen every day.

There is a risk something bad could happen.

But then there is a risk something bad could happen right now wherever you are reading this. There is always a risk whenever you travel somewhere.

If you want to travel somewhere far away and you want to get there fast it’s hard to beat air travel.

Everyone should take a flight at least once in their life!

We recommend that everyone takes at least one flight in their life. If only to tick it off your bucket list. Don’t let a fear of flying hold you back from living life!

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41 Useful First Time Flyers Tips: How to be Prepared (2024)

Whether you’re flying for the first time with your family, friends, or solo, navigating an airport can be both incredibly exciting and stressful-inducing. However, the most important thing to remember is that we’ve all been there at some point in our lives and it’s going to be okay! To make sure your experience is as smooth as possible, here are my 41 best first-time flyers tips for everything from searching for flights to getting off the plane at your final destination .

Traveling Soon? Here Are the Travel Resources I Use!

🏡 Accommodations: I use Expedia or Booking for hotels and Hostelworld for hostels ✈️ Flights: I find the best deals on StudentUniverse & Skyscanner 🗺️ Travel Insurance: I suggest Safetywing as an affordable option 🤿 Tours & Experiences: I love to use Viator and Get Your Guide 🚗 Car Rentals : I recommend DiscoverCars for all your rental car needs! 📱 E-Sim: The company I’ve had the most positive experiences with is Airalo Use code ‘KRISTI7012’ for an extra $3 off your ESIM from Airalo!

41 Useful First-Time Flyers Tips (2024)

The first step of every airport journey is booking your flight. Two flight search engines I highly recommend are Skyscanner and StudentUniverse . If you haven’t heard of StudentUniverse, you can read my in-depth review of StudentUniverse to help you decide whether you want to use it.

1. Check Airline Luggage Restrictions

As you shop around for the best flight tickets, it’s important to always check the airline’s luggage policies. Being aware of the restrictions and ensuring your luggage is compliant both in terms of size dimensions and weight limitations will help you avoid any unwanted surprises or fees. The first time I solo-traveled, I didn’t think to do this because I genuinely thought that there were universal sizes for carry-on and checked suitcases. I mean, you think this would be the case!? Unfortunately, I found out by way of a surprise $100 added fee that this was not the case. Thus, do yourself a favor and check luggage restrictions and weigh your bag at home! Trust me, it’s better to spend a few minutes searching for a tape measure and scale in the back drawer than handing airport staff your credit card 🙃

🧳 PRO TIP: If you’re flying with more than one airline, be sure to check the luggage policies of each airline! Budget airlines are notoriously strict!

Quick Guide to Luggage Sizes

• Personal bag or item: Typically a small purse, handbag, or school-size backpack that can be stored underneath the seat in front of you. There is no weight limit for your personal bag, unless otherwise specified by the airline.
• Carry-on bag or hand baggage: A smaller suitcase or duffel bag that can be stored in the overhead bins near your seat. Some airlines have no weight restrictions for carry-on bags, while others have strict limits. The main thing to remember is that you must be able to lift the bag into the overhead bin by yourself.
• Checked baggage or hold baggage: Large suitcases or pieces of luggage that must be weighed and checked in by airport staff. You won’t have access to checked luggage throughout the flight nor will you take checked bags with you through airport security. Most airlines have a weight restriction of 23 kg or 50 lbs for checked luggage.

2. Make Your Luggage Identifiable

On your carry-on bag and any checked bags, I recommend attaching a luggage tag that has your contact information. These are helpful if you get separated from your luggage and can be great identifiers when you’re picking up your checked bag from baggage claim. With all the madness in the travel industry, a little travel hack is to place an Apple Air Tag inside your checked bag. Airports have been in absolute chaos as of late, so this is one way to get the most up-to-date information on your bag’s whereabouts. Plus, if the airport claims to have lost your checked luggage, you can show them your bag’s location using the Apple Air tag , and this can expedite the retrieval process. If you don’t have a dedicated luggage tag or Apple Air tag and don’t plan on buying one, I suggest putting a piece of paper with your contact info inside your luggage. Just make sure it’s easy to find.

✅ 🧳 Check rates for apple a single Apple Air tag or a pack of 4 Air tags here

3. Place Important Travel Documents in Folder

One travel tip that I wish I had discovered back when I was a first-time flyer is to use a school folder to keep all my important documents together. I always print and place my housing accommodations paperwork, travel insurance papers, flight info, and any other documents in a nice folder. While it may seem silly to do this when we have smartphones, your phone can be unreliable when you’re in a foreign country and don’t have stable Wi-fi. Furthermore, being organized and knowing where things are is one of the best things you can do to alleviate any airport anxiety. Remember, success favors the prepared…and organize d!

4. Exchange Currency in Advance

If you are traveling abroad to a location with a currency different from your home currency, I strongly recommend exchanging currency at least 3 weeks before your trip. This is because foreign exchange rates at airports and abroad are typically worse than your local home bank. And even in the age of travel credit cards , it’s always a good idea to carry a little bit of cash on you in case of emergencies. Plus, small vendors and taxi drivers oftentimes only accept cash. In general, I recommend getting $100 USD worth of foreign currency per week you’re traveling. When you request money from your bank, it usually takes anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks to arrive via mail. Thus, make sure you give yourself ample time!

First Time Flyers Tips: Travel Essentials to Pack

When it’s a couple of days before your trip, it’s time to start packing! Here are some travel essentials I bring every time I fly and encourage you to as well.

5. Bring a Portable Luggage Scale

With so many different weight restrictions across various airlines, it’s all too easy to accidentally overpack or bring a few too many travel souvenirs home. Something that’s been life-changing for my travels is carrying a portable electric luggage scale . They are super light, easy to use, and help keep you in check. I find them to be especially worth it if you plan on traveling to several destinations in a single trip. Gone are the days of added fees because of overweight bags. 😅

✅ 🧳 Check out the portable electric luggage scale I love to use and highly recommend.

6. Stay Hygienic

With COVID-19 and new variants cropping up seemingly every 6 months, it’s better to be safe than sorry. I recommend bringing a small travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer and a pack of anti-bacterial wipes . Airports and planes are quite dirty with the amount of foot traffic they get. Therefore, I like giving myself a little bit of peace of mind by wiping down the seat tray before I set anything that’s mine on it. Furthermore, travel-friendly hand sanitizer is a way to clean up if you don’t want to disturb your seatmates to get to the bathroom.

7. Pack a Portable Battery

One thing that I have found to be incredibly useful over the years is a portable battery for my phone. There have been so many times when I’ve shown up at the airport, and the outlets don’t work. In turn, I spend the entire time trying my best to save my phone’s battery. Plus, some airplanes don’t provide you with outlets, such as those running shorter flights. The worst thing is arriving at a foreign destination and not being sure if you’ll have enough battery power to last until you reach your housing accommodations. Been there, done that. 🙃 Remove the added stress and anxiety of low batteries by investing in a good portable battery.

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8. Invest in a Travel Pillow

For those longer flights or any flight that you might fall asleep on, it’s so worth investing in a travel pillow. I used to do 10-hour flights without a travel pillow , and even when I had a window seat, I would wake up feeling like death. Sometimes, my neck would be in pain for a couple of days after the flight due to my head whiplashing forward so many times. The lesson learned is to save yourself the pain and get a travel pillow. Your neck will thank you later, and you can use it for car rides, train rides, or pretty much anywhere you might fall asleep.

9. Pack a Light Jacket

Even if you’re headed to a hot and sunny destination, I recommend always carrying a light jacket in your personal bag or backpack. Airplanes get pretty chilly if they’re blasting the air conditioner. If nothing else, they make a decent pillow if you don’t have a proper travel pillow. That being said, your jacket likely can’t keep you warm and serve as a comfortable pillow.

10. Bring Headphones

One of my most valuable first-time flyers tips is to always bring headphones or earplugs. If you have noise-canceling headphones , that’s even better. On nearly every flight, there is inevitably always at least one screaming child who makes sleeping a struggle. It’s during times like these you’ll want something to dim the noise, especially if you’re already anxious about flying. Recently, I was on a flight where I kid you not, there were 30 children under the age of 5 on the flight. Literally over a fourth of the passengers on the flight were small children. Never in my life had I been so grateful to have canceling headphones. Heck, even when I’m not trying to sleep, having headphones to block out the external noise from the airplane itself makes the flight experience more enjoyable. Thus, I strongly recommend packing something to help block out the noises.

✅🎧 See if AirPods Pros are worth it for you here.

11. Stay Hydrated

A must-bring item is a reusable water bottle . One of the effects of flying and being at a high altitude is dehydration. Thus, it’s crucial to make an effort to stay hydrated. You can’t go through security with any liquids in your water bottle, so make sure you drink everything or empty it before you head inside the airport . After going through security, I recommend immediately finding a water fountain to refill your bottle up. This way, you won’t forget to do it later and can relax once you reach your boarding gate.

12. Bring Snacks for Provisions

Another tip for first-time flyers is to bring a couple of snacks. For example, I always try to pack a few granola bars, a sleeve of crackers, and some grape mentos to chew on. Oddly specific I know, but the grape mentos from Japan are superior. 😅 Anyway, having snacks also comes in handy if your flight is delayed, and you don’t want to pay for overpriced airport food! Just keep in mind that if you’re flying internationally, you may have to declare some food items. If you bring anything that isn’t allowed into the country, like fresh fruits, border control will likely have you throw them out.

✈️ NOTE: Don’t forget to pack some gum to help pop your ears during the flight!

13. Personal Entertainment

Since not all flights provide in-flight entertainment, I recommend bringing something to help you pass the time. For instance, I like to download 5 or 6 shows from Netflix as well as an audiobook onto my phone at home. Don’t rely on airport Wi-fi to download large files because airport Wi-fi is often slow or has a time limit before they ask you to pay. The worst is when you can connect to the Wi-fi but don’t have internet access, so it feels like quite the tease. To avoid the struggles of airport Wi-fi, just assume that there is none. That way, you’ll be pleasantly surprised if it actually works!

What to Do the Day Before Departure

When it’s the day before your flight, I have four first-time flyers tips to ensure everything is ready to go!

14. Check in Online in Advance

A couple of days before your flight departs, your flight provider will often send you an email reminder or two. At this time, I recommend setting an alarm on your phone to go off exactly 24 hours before your flight departs. This is when most airlines allow you to check-in, and you want to check in as soon as possible. There are 3 possible benefits of doing this: First, you’ll likely receive a more favorable boarding time. Typically, passengers are assigned boarding groups (or zones) based on reward status and check-in time. The earlier you check in, the earlier you get to board. An earlier boarding time also means you’ll have an easier time getting settled in your seat and finding space in the overhead bins for your carry-on bags . If you’re in one of the last boarding groups, overhead bin space becomes limited and you may be forced to store your carry-on bag somewhere far from your seat. In turn, retrieving your carry-on bag can be a massive hassle and take more time.

The last reason to check in early is that you may be able to select your seat preference at no additional cost . Normally, you have to pay extra for a specific seat. However, a little travel hack is that if you check in immediately, some airlines let passengers without seat preferences pick their desired seat. Knowing where you’ll be sitting can help reduce stress, especially if you know you want an aisle or window seat.

15. Send Flight Information to Family

After you check-in, it’s always a good idea to send your flight information to a trusted family member or friend. This way someone outside your travel group knows what your general travel plans are and approximately where you are supposed to be at certain times. For example, I always email my parents my flight number and flight departure/arrival time for every flight I take. Even though there is nothing they can do if something unexpected happens, at least they can track the flight and stay informed. Plus, it adds an extra layer of peace knowing someone is looking out for you.

📝 PROTIP: I highly recommend the app Notion for trip planning as it allows you to seamlessly share your travel information with trusted people. Additionally, the app updates in real-time, so all parties can see any changes made to your itinerary.

16. Take a Screenshot of the Ticket

Another first-time flyers tip is to always take a screenshot of your ticket. If the airline sends you your boarding pass online, be sure to take a screenshot to ensure that you have it handy in the event you can’t load your email. Remember that airport Wi-fi can be finicky, and you don’t want to accidentally hold up any lines.

17. Know Your Backup Plan

The last thing you should do the day before leaving is make a backup plan. In the hopefully unlikely event something happens, such as your flight being canceled or heavily delayed after you’ve arrived at the airport, come up with a plan of action. It can be anything as simple as making a note on your phone of the customer service number or deciding to hunker down at the airport. Merely knowing what the first step is in the event something unexpected happens will help you remain calm as you evaluate your next step.

TSA Tips for First-Time Flyers

Part of the airport security process is having your body checked as well as examining the items in your carry-on bag and personal bag. In my opinion, this is the most dreaded and stressful part of flying. There are usually lots of people, TSA agents are often yelling, and I just want to get through as fast as possible. To make sure you’re prepared and minimize the chances of being yelled at by TSA agents, here are a few first-time flyers tips on things you should do before you leave for the airport.

18. Wear a Comfortable Outfit

First, you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing something comfortable for the duration of your flight. Whether this means jeans, shorts, or sweats, the main thing is that you feel good in them, especially if you have a long-haul flight. No one likes to sit in the same position for long periods while wearing restrictive clothes. And if you want to dress to impress someone waiting for you on the other side, remember that you can always change in a bathroom immediately after deplaning at your destination. Another thing to consider is that the more accessories you wear, the longer it will take for you to go through the TSA security checkpoint. I usually keep it simple and opt to wear some sweats, a regular T-shirt, and a light jacket.

19. Easy to Remove Shoes

Similar to the point above, it’s recommended you wear shoes that are easy to remove. At nearly every airport I’ve been to, TSA staff will ask you to remove your shoes before you walk through their giant scanners. You don’t want to get flustered because people behind you are getting impatient while waiting for you to remove your shoes.

I also highly suggest wearing socks with whatever shoes you pick. If you wear sandals, just know you’ll have to walk around barefoot, and airport floors are disgusting. Additionally, there’s a good chance your shoes will get stepped on or rolled across by at least one person’s luggage, so bear that in mind as well if you choose to wear your best sneakers.

20. Place Liquids in a Plastic Bag

Part of TSA guidelines is that any liquids, such as shampoo, lotion, and contact solution, must fit in a quart-sized plastic bag. In addition, each item can’t be more than 3.4 fluid ounces or 100 mL. To expedite the process, I recommend putting all your liquids in a clear quart-sized plastic bag before you leave for the airport. If you wait until to do this at the airport, you run the risk of having anything that doesn’t fit in the bag thrown away or confiscated. I also suggest storing your liquid bag near the top of your personal bag. You don’t want to have to unpack everything in your carry-on or spend excessive time searching for your liquid bag.

🧴 PRO TIP: I highly recommend using TSA-compliant reusable travel bottles to store your shampoo, conditioner, and cleansers. They help reduce plastic waste and are awesome!

21. Check TSA Guidelines

Double-check that you aren’t accidentally bringing something onto the plane that isn’t allowed. If you do, your bag is isolated from the rest of the bags and inspected by a TSA agent. Depending on how busy the airport is, this can take up quite a bit of time. It’s always better to just show up prepared and get through security as fast as possible. If you aren’t sure if your bags are TSA compliant, check TSA’s hefty list of what is and isn’t allowed .

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22. Place Valuables in Personal Bag

One of the last things to do before heading to the airport is to make sure you put all your valuables in your personal bag. For example, I keep my laptop, wallet, phone, tablet, camera, chargers, and liquids bag in my personal backpack. Your personal bag is the safest spot for your valuables because it’ll likely never leave your sight.

23. Keep Your ID Handy but Safe

At the airport, you’re typically asked to present your ID and passport (if traveling internationally) at least three times. Two first-time flyers tips that will save time and help you be prepared are keeping your ID in an easily accessible location and a safe spot. What I mean by this is placing these important items in a pocket that is only accessible from within your personal bag. This way, you’ll always know where your ID and passport are and don’t have to awkwardly spend time in line rummaging around in your bag for your stuff. Similarly, you don’t want to store anything of great value in a small pocket on the outside of your bag that can be easily opened by someone standing behind you. As someone who had her wallet stolen in Paris , always be vigilant of airport thieves and people trying to pickpocket.

What Should a Beginner Do at the Airport

24. arrive early.

Finally, it’s time to head to the airport! Give yourself ample time to go through the airport process and security, especially if you’re flying out of a large airport. The general rule is to arrive 2 hours early if you’re flying domestically and 3 hours if you’re flying internationally.

Upon arrival at the airport…

If you are checking in a large piece of luggage, look for the check-in counter that corresponds to the airline that you are flying with. Head over there so they can weigh your bag, check your passport and ticket, and check in your bag. From there, or if you aren’t traveling with a checked bag, head in the direction of the airport security checkpoint. There are usually large signs indicating where to go, but when in doubt, just ask airport staff. They’re there to help you, so don’t be afraid! When you get to the security checkpoint, there’s always an agent checking your ticket and ID (or passport). As mentioned before, TSA agents will ask you to remove any liquids and large electronics, such as a laptop or tablet, from your bags. You’ll also be asked to remove your shoes, belts, and hats. Pretty much remove everything until you just have a shirt, bottoms, and socks — or a single layer of clothes.

25. Check the Flight Departure Board

When you have gone through security and have all your items packed safely in your bags again, check the flight departure board. This will give you the most up-to-date information on your flight and tell you which gate to wait at. Afterward, just follow the signage to your gate and look for a water fountain to refill your water bottle! Once you’ve found your gate, frequently check your flight status. Sometimes, your gate number will change at the last minute. They’ll announce if this happens, but it’s easy to miss the announcement with all the noise.

✈️ NOTE: Make sure you know your flight number.

26. Use the restroom before boarding

About 20 minutes before boarding, I recommend going to the bathroom before boarding your flight. You want to avoid having to use the cramped bathroom on the plane, especially toward the end of a long flight. To put it lightly, they can become less than ideal after 50+ people have used them. Plus, you don’t want to have to disturb the other people in your row if they’re sleeping.

First Time Flyers Tips: How to Board the Plane

27. listen for announcements.

Approximately an hour before your flight departure, start listening for boarding announcements. The exact time they begin boarding should be listed on your ticket, but depending on if there are any delays, this time may change.

28. Get Out Your Boarding Pass

When you start to hear announcements, this is a good time to get out your boarding pass and ID (or passport). Make sure you know your boarding group or zone number. Airport gate agents will start to call boarding groups or zones to the front. If you line up out of order, they’ll tell you to step aside or go to the back.

29. Carry-on bag in Overhead Bin

When you board the plane, set your personal item in your seat first before trying to put your carry-on bag in the overhead bin. This will hopefully prevent you from accidentally bumping into the people around you with your personal bag. Afterward, store your carry-on bag in a manner that takes up the least amount of space. This usually means wheels first and making sure the upright handle faces you.

30. Personal Bag Under Seat

Once you’ve taken care of your carry-on bag, place your personal bag under the seat in front of you. Sometimes people bring a purse and a small backpack as their “one” personal item. If you do, make sure both of them fit underneath the seat in front. You don’t want anything loose in your lap during take-off because it’s a safety hazard.

31. Phone on Airplane Mode

After the doors close and the plane begins to move, put your phone in airplane mode. This is done as a safety precaution since our phones emit electronic signals that interfere with the plane. Furthermore, airplane mode helps to save your phone’s battery life, which is always a good thing! From there, follow the instructions of your flight crew as they explain all the safety measures in place.

32. Proper Airport and Travel Etiquette

As a general reminder, throughout the entire airport process, it’s important to be respectful of other people’s spaces. Everyone is feeling all kinds of emotions, so just be mindful of people’s personal space bubbles. Share the armrests and try to keep your body parts contained in your seat space. For anyone with long hair, make sure your hair doesn’t block the screen on the back of your chair. Essentially, just be courteous and kind.

What to Expect Flying for the First Time

Aside from what I’ve already mentioned, there are a couple of things you can expect during take-off and your actual flight… When the doors close, the cabin crew will walk the aisle closing overhead bins, checking everything is stored away properly, and making sure passenger seatbelts are buckled. The pilot and co-pilot will simultaneously introduce themselves and give you some general flight information.

Time for Take-off

Then, as the plane heads towards the runway, the plane will turn off any main lights and eventually announce, “Prepare for take-off.” When this happens, there’s usually a loud rumble from the engines firing up. After a few moments, the plane will rapidly accelerate and begin to lift into the air. Your ears may become plugged, and you might feel slightly pushed back into your seat.

Cruising Altitude

When the plane reaches its cruising altitude, the pilot will make a few announcements, and shortly thereafter, cabin crew attendants will begin offering drinks and a small snack. Depending on how long your flight is, you may receive a meal or two. The general rule is that if you’re on a long-haul flight (6 or more hours), a meal is included. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to make a meal request in your flight portal on the airline’s website beforehand. This will give the airline time to prepare you a special meal. Another thing to note is that there may be light or even a decent amount of turbulence during the flight. This is 100% normal and happens on nearly every flight. The turbulence is caused by the plane encountering strong, irregular wind currents. Do your best to remain calm and make sure your seat belt is buckled.

Prepare for Landing

About 45 minutes before the plane lands, the pilot typically announces to, “prepare for landing.” At this time, you put your seats back in their upright position, fold up your trays, and store away any large electronics. In terms of feelings, there may be occasional but short stomach drop moments during the plane’s descent. Also, your ears may become plugged again. As the plane lands, the plane may skip along the runway and shake a little bit. However, this should only last for a few seconds as the plane will rapidly decelerate. Upon landing, the plane will slowly make its way to your arrival gate.

Is Flying for the First Time Scary?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question completely depends on the type of person you are. Some people find the experience to be thrilling as they think of where they’re headed, while others hate the concept of flying in a metal tube. I will say that even after visiting 30+ countries and taking 70+ flights, I still get anxious about going through the airport process. I hate being yelled at or accidentally doing something wrong, so it can be stressful navigating an airport in a foreign country. That said, I don’t think the physical act of flying is scary. The one thing to know is that you’ll likely be feeling all kinds of emotions and however you feel is totally okay.

5 Tips for First-Time Flyers With Anxiety

If you are feeling especially anxious, here are 5 first-time flyers tips to cope with the anxiety.

33. Simple Reminders

When you start to panic or feel stressed, try to remind yourself of simple facts. For example, the pilots are incredibly well-trained and quite literally have gone through over ten thousand hours of training. If something unexpected happens, they are trained to assess the situation and respond appropriately. Similarly, the plane itself and its equipment are regularly inspected. You have no reason not to trust the equipment. Finally, remind yourself that flying is the safest mode of transportation. You are safer in the hands of these amazing pilots than driving to the grocery store in your car or traveling by public transportation.

34. Listen to Music

As I mentioned earlier, one way I like to calm myself during flights is by listening to music. Blocking out the external noises on the plane with some noise-canceling headphones is a powerful tool to distract your mind. Escape into the world of music and focus on the lyrics of a song instead of your surrounding environment.

35. Read a Book

Alternatively, I also recommend listening to an audiobook or reading a physical book. Both of these things can distract your mind by getting you to think about the information at hand rather than where you presently are.

36. Talk with your Neighbor

If you would rather not be alone with your thoughts, try striking up a conversation with your seat neighbor. Focus on them instead of yourself and what’s going on in your head. Plus, you already know that you have at least one thing in common with them: you’re both headed to the same destination! Ask them why they’re flying there or where their final destination is if they are connecting to another flight.

Nine times out of 10, people love talking about themselves, and if you put yourself out there, you give yourself the chance to connect with so many wonderful people. This is how I found out I went to college and was good friends with the brother of my row buddy!

37. Ask for Help

If you feel sick or like you can’t control your anxiety, don’t hesitate to ask for help. People are often good and want to see you doing well. Remember, the flight attendants are trained to support you in any way they can and have likely assisted lots of passengers who have anxiety flying. You can trust them to support you if you find yourself panicking or struggling.

What to Do When the Plane Lands

After the plane safely lands and starts heading to your arrival gate, the pilot will make some final announcements about your arrival destination. These are a few tips everyone should remember, not just first-time flyers.

38. Remain Seated

When the plane reaches your arrival gate, the seat belt sign will turn off, indicating it’s safe to unbuckle your seat belt. As this happens, I urge you to remain seated. You’ll likely see lots of people around you immediately standing up and starting to retrieve their carry-on bags from the overhead bins. Please don’t do this. It slows down the deplaning process, and you will likely be told to sit down by the flight crew. During this waiting period, airport grounds staff are safely attaching the plane to the tunnel that connects the plane to the airport.

39. Turn off Airplane Mode only if…

While you wait, you can turn off airplane mode on your phone if you’re traveling domestically . In the event you’re traveling internationally, I recommend waiting until you can switch to stable wifi before turning off airplane mode. The reason is that your phone will immediately begin searching for signal and wifi networks to connect to. As it does this, it uses up cellular data. If you’re in a foreign country, there’s a good chance you’ll be charged extra for using data abroad. For example, I know that my phone plan charges $40 per day if I use any cellular data internationally. This obviously can become expensive quickly, so exercise caution. There are only two times I recommend turning off airplane mode while you’re sitting on the plane in a foreign country. First, if you know your phone plan includes international data or you can afford international data with your cellular plan. The second case is if you have obtained a special Esim card meant for the foreign country or countries you’re visiting.

☎️ Need an ESIM? I highly recommend Airalo . This is the company I’ve used for my last 4 international trips to Canada , Europe , and Asia . They were the first ESIM company, always have the best prices, and make the installation very easy. Use code: ‘ KRISTI7012 ‘ for an extra $3 off.

40. Wait to Grab Your Bags

Normally, the flight crew doesn’t make any announcements over the loudspeaker about when to start grabbing your bags. Instead, they just inform the first couple of rows when it’s okay. From there, the immediate row behind the front few will follow suit and slowly retrieve their bags. This process continues until the back of the plane. I suggest waiting until it’s your row’s turn to exit the plane to retrieve your bag. If you try and get it earlier, you run the risk of accidentally bumping someone with your bag. Just try to be patient and remember to be especially aware of your surroundings. I’ve seen bags fall on passenger’s heads and the outcome was brutal.

41. Know Where to Go

After exiting the plane, you might be unsure where to go. Don’t worry, I’ve been there as well. Here are a few first time flyers tips to help guide you. First, when in doubt, refer to your trip itinerary to see which of the following situations applies to you.

Connecting Flight

For connecting flights, look at a nearby flight departure board to figure out which gate you need to head to next. If your flight was delayed or you aren’t sure which direction to go, ask airport staff for help. Again, they’re there to help you, so remember to be kind and patient!

✈️ NOTE: In the event you’re crossing international borders, such as flying from the US, connecting in Canada , and flying to Paris, you may have to go through another security checkpoint.

Domestic Flights

If you have flown domestically and are at your final destination, follow the signs to baggage claim to pick up your checked luggage. There is often a sign that reads flight numbers and indicates which conveyor belt corresponds to which flight. After you pick up your checked bag, or if you don’t have one, you’re all set to leave the airport!

International Flights

If you’re on an international flight, you’ll have to go through immigration and customs before reaching baggage claim. Immigration and customs vary slightly from country to country, but this is how they both generally work. Immigration concerns people moving between countries. An immigration officer checks your passport, asks a couple of questions concerning the details of your trip, and may ask you to fill out some forms. Think of it as a mini-interview with an extremely high chance of being successful. Contrastingly, customs is all about the items you’re transporting. You’ll state what you’ve brought into the country and answer a few questions. Depending on the country’s rules, you’ll be able to carry on your merry way, or customs officers may ask you to fill out additional forms to declare some goods. Upon completing immigration and customs, you can head over to the baggage claim area to retrieve your checked luggage. Afterward, or if you didn’t check any luggage, breathe a sigh of relief that you made it and can finally exit the airport! YAY!

Wrap-Up: First Time Flyers Tips (2024)

Figuring out the whole airport process can be overwhelming and scary at times, but with my abundance of first-time flyers tips, you will hopefully be able to fly with confidence. Remember that you got this and success favors the prepared. When in doubt, simply ask for help because that’s what airport staff is there for. With that, I wish you a smooth airport journey and safe travels!

Need More Travel Resources?

Head over to my dedicated Travel Resources Page ! You can view all my favorite places to book everything from housing and transportation to activities and ESIM cards! It’s also where you’ll find my ultimate packing list that’s great to use as a comprehensive guide on what to bring on your next global travel escapade! As always, feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need guidance on your upcoming travels! I promise I’m friendly! 🤠

Save This Post for Later!

Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

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How to Travel when Flying on a Plane

Last Updated: September 9, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Amy Tan . Amy Tan is a Travel Planner and the Founder of Planet Hoppers, a boutique travel design team founded in 2002. Planet Hoppers specializes in brainstorming and creating itineraries for dream vacations, honeymoons, exotic adventures, family reunions, and group trips. Planet Hoppers is a TRUE accredited travel agency and a member of the Signature Travel Network, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and Travel Leaders. Amy earned a BA in Communications and a BS in Physics from the University of California, Davis in 2000. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 13 testimonials and 92% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 465,432 times.

Air travel is the fastest way to travel over long distances, but it can be stressful to pack and make sure that you have done everything correctly in order to get through airport security. There are many rules and regulations that travelers must follow. However, as long as you are familiar with the guidelines and get everything ready in advance, you should have no issues traveling by airplane.

When you are on a plane, you are traveling. So, essentially, how you would travel when flying on a plane is you would sit down and enjoy the ride.

Packing Your Bags

• The permitted size of carry-on bags varies from airline to airline. Check the requirements for the airline with which you will travel to learn how big your carry-on bag can be. [1] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source
• Remember that certain items are only permissible when packed in a checked bag.

• Liquids, such as bath products
• Sporting goods
• Self defense items
• Sharp objects
• Small lighters.

• Most liquids and some food items, like gravies and sauces or sometimes even ketchup, must be 3.4 fluid ounces (100.6 ml) or less in order to be allowed in a carry-on bag. The rules may be different for necessities such as medicine, but there still are restraints for that. [4] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source

• Additionally, overpacking your carry-on or checked bag might result in it not fitting into the airline-approved measurements, in which case you might have to remove items from your bag to put into another bag or leave it at the airport. [6] X Research source
• Checked bag fees start at $25 for one checked bag at the majority of airlines and go up from there, with increases for multiple checked bags and bags that are overweight. [7] X Research source

• All liquid items that are 3.4 fluid ounces (100.6 ml) or smaller can go in your carry-on, and they must be packed in one 1-quart bag. Each traveler is only permitted to have one of these bags. [8] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source
• Items that are larger that 3.4 fluid ounces (100.6 ml) can be packed in a checked bag. They do not have to be enclosed in a zip-top bag, but it is recommended in order to protect your other packed belongings.
• Medications and nourishment items for infants and children are exempt from these rules. [9] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source

• Rolling your clothing not only saves space but also reduces wrinkles in clothes.

• Packing your items in this way prevents your clothes from being further compressed and wrinkled by being buried under heavier items.
• Put toiletries and other light items on top so that they are easily accessible for removing at the security checkpoint.

• This way, you have at least one additional set of clothing to wear until you receive your checked bag.
• It would also be helpful to include some key toiletry items, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant, as long as they meet the 3.4 fluid-ounce (100.6 ml) requirement.

• Put magazines, thin books, or other slim items in these pockets.

• Security does have approved locks that they can open with their own tools, including Safe Skies and Travel Sentry.

Did You Know? Airlines inspect your luggage to make sure you do not have forbidden items, like:

Getting to the Airport

• Checking in online ahead of time also saves you time in getting to the airport, because you can head straight to security and skip the check-in lines upon arrival.

• If you check in at the airport, then airline agents will provide you with your boarding pass at that time.

• U.S. driver's license that is Real ID Act compliant (see dhs.gov/real-id for more information). If you do not have a Real ID compliant ID, then you will need to obtain an alternate form of identification (such as a passport or passport card) to pass the security lines.
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• U.S. military ID
• Permanent resident card
• Government-issued passport
• Border crossing card.

• Airlines recommend that you arrive 30-45 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights, depending on whether you have to check any baggage. For international flights, it is recommended that you arrive at least two hours prior to departure to allow time for completing international requirements. [17] X Research source
• Accommodate for extra time if you have to drive yourself and park in long-term parking. You will have extra time for traveling from the parking lot to the terminal via the airport shuttle.
• If your airport is large and extremely busy, take that into consideration and arrive early, just to be sure. Also think about what day of the week you are traveling. Weekends are usually busy travel times, which means the airport and security checkpoint might be busier.

• Liquids and aerosols in the quart-sized bag
• Technology devices
• Medically necessary medications and liquids
• Nourishment items for infants and children.

• Coats, jackets, and sweaters
• Cell phones

• Let the officer or other representative know that you have medically necessary liquids or medications when you are going through the screening. If you also need items such as ice packs, syringes, pumps, and IV bags, notify the officer about those, as well. It is helpful to have them labeled for easy screening. Keep all of these items separate from other liquids, like bath and hygiene products. Any ice packs or frozen gel packs that are necessary for your medication must be frozen solid at the security checkpoint. You do have the option to not have your medication screened by X-ray or to not have it opened, but in that case, other screening measures will have to be taken. [19] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source
• If you have nourishment items for an infant or child, you are also allowed to bring them in excess of 3.4 fluid ounces (100.6 ml) in a carry-on item, and they can be in a zip-top bag larger than one quart. However, they must be separate from other liquids that you are checking through security. Alert the officer that you have these items so that they can be screened correctly. The officer may want to X-ray or open your breast milk, formula, or juice, but you can deny that if you would like to. In that case, other screening measures will have to be taken. Ice packs and frozen gel packs will need to be frozen solid at the time you go through security. Other items such as canned, jarred, and processed baby food are permitted, as well as liquid-filled teethers, but they will also have to be screened. [20] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source

• After you have found your gate, you can go to the restroom, get something to eat, or shop, if you have time.

Making the Most of the Travel Time

• Being prepared with snacks and drinks will help tide you over until you get to your destination, because although flights still do beverage service, many short haul flights no longer offer food or snacks. When they do offer meals, you normally have to pay for them.
• An alternative is to eat at one of the airport restaurants. These are usually overpriced, but if you have a long time to wait or will have a long time before you can get your next meal, it is a good idea to eat at a restaurant.

• Once you are on your plane, you will be asked to power off your electronic devices or put them in Airplane Mode. Be sure to do this to avoid interference with airline signals. Remember that you cannot access any apps that require cellular data or Wi-Fi when your smartphone or other device is in Airplane Mode.
• Many airlines now offer Wi-Fi on flights, but it is almost always for a fee. Determine whether it is worth the money to access Wi-Fi on the flight. For example, if you are taking a business trip and have work to do while you travel, it will likely be worthwhile. If your trip is for pleasure, though, and you have no real need for using Wi-Fi other than entertainment, it might not be worth the price.

• Some airplanes have small TV screens in the backs of the headrests, so you can watch what is on those TVs. Keep in mind that you usually have to pay extra to access more desirable channels, instead of watching their infomercial channels or a map of your travel.

Deplaning at Your Destination

• 1 Unfasten your seat belt. Wait until directed to do so and the fasten seat belt sign turns off.
• 2 Other passengers may race to get up. If you don't wish to squeeze through at the first instant you can kindly let others pass infront of you.
• 3 Take caution when opening overhead compartments. Suitcases may fall out unexpectedly.
• Proceed out and follow the signs to the customs booth. Self-service kiosks can also do the same thing.
• Present your passport and your customs form to the officer or scan them in the booth.
• Scan your fingerprints on the scanner if necessary. This can happen if your name is on a country's blacklist, where you may be denied entry and deported. Scanning your fingerprints prove to the country that it is really you.
• Be sure to gather your belongings from the plain before claiming your baggage. You cannot go back into a restricted area, without clearing security again.
• 6 Leave the airport. Go to your arranged mode of transportation. You can also take a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or public transport.

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

Share a quick video tip and help bring articles to life with your friendly advice. Your insights could make a real difference and help millions of people!

• Try taking some books if you are travelling on a plane for many hours as it will be entertaining. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• If you get airsick on planes, make sure to bring everything you need, including some wet wipes and something to snack on while in the plane. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• Check in at the airport at least two to three hours before the boarding/departing time, because airports could be busy, and security could be overwhelmed by many travellers. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 2

Tips from our Readers

• Bring a small container of antibacterial hand gel. Airplanes are often loaded with germs and it can be inconvenient to go all the way to your bathroom to wash your hands.
• After you go through security, you can buy food to take onto the plane. It'll usually be better than whatever they serve on the airplane (if they serve anything at all).
• If you are carrying a purse or other small bag, put it in your luggage or carry on so it doesn't count as your small bag.
• If you're in the United States and hate long security lines, sign up for TSA Precheck a few months before you travel.

• When you try to take non-approved items through the security checkpoint, security agents will throw them away. Save yourself frustration by being sure to only pack approved items. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 0
• Don't bother the people next to you unless you don't understand something or if it's an emergency. They may need rest and somewhere to be able to quiet themselves. Thanks Helpful 24 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/prohibited-items
• ↑ Amy Tan. Travel Planner & Founder, Planet Hoppers. Expert Interview. 12 March 2020.
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule
• ↑ https://www.expertflyer.com/travel-packing-tips
• ↑ https://money.com/collection-post/best-travel-airline-baggage-fees/
• ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/packing-tips/rolling-clothes
• ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/packing-tips/fill-your-luggage
• ↑ https://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/today-in-travel/10-things-you-should-never-pack-in-your-checked-bag.html?id=10387331
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
• ↑ https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/check-in-and-arrival.jsp?anchorLocation=DirectURL&title=arrivaltimes#arrivaltimes
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children

About This Article

Taking a flight can seem stressful, but if you know the regulations ahead of time and prepare for your journey, you’ll be fine! Before you pack your bags, make sure you check your airline’s regulations. Many airlines have restrictions on liquids, food, and sharp objects as well as the maximum weight and size of your bags. To save you time at the airport, check if you can print or download your boarding pass ahead of time. Make sure you bring your ID, or your passport if you’re flying internationally. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early for domestic flights and 2 hours for international flights. This gives you time to check in your bags get through security, and find the correct terminal. For more tips, including how to entertain yourself on a long flight, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What to Expect Your First Time Flying

It’s normal to feel anxious the first time you fly, but to help ease the nerves it’s good to know what you can expect at the airport, on the plane, and after getting off the plane.

In this article, we cover everything you can expect your first time flying, airport procedures to be aware of, and statistics that show just how safe air travel is to put your mind at ease.

The following step-by-step guide will be particularly useful.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Before the Flight
• 1.2 At Check-in
• 1.3 At Airport Security
• 1.4 After Airport Security
• 1.5 On the Plane
• 1.6 After the Flight
• 2 Make Sure to Bring the Correct ID
• 3 Pay Attention to Carry on and Checked Luggage Restrictions
• 4 Make Sure You Bring These Essential Items
• 5 Don’t Worry: Flying is Exceptionally Safe
• 6 It’s Normal to Feel Some Nerves When Flying For the First Time
• 7 Turbulence Can Be Scary, But Isn’t Actually Dangerous
• 8 You May Experience Airplane Ear

Before the Flight

• Assuming you have already booked your ticket, double-check the flight time and luggage restrictions, including the maximum weight and size of bags allowed.
• If it makes you more comfortable, consider paying extra to sit by the window or aisle.
• Make sure you don’t pack any liquids, gels, or aerosols larger than 3.4oz/100ml in your carry on because they will be confiscated at airport security if you do.
• Place your liquids, gels, and aerosols that are within the regulations inside a clear, resealable 1-quart sized bag.
• Place a TSA-approved lock on your checked bag because if they want to take a look inside your bag, they’re getting inside through any means necessary.
• Make sure you travel with one of the acceptable forms of ID the TSA requires for flying. Note that a passport is required for all international flights , though not necessary for domestic flights.
• Dress comfortably, with many passengers preferring loose-fitting clothing.
• Plan to get to the airport 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours if flying internationally .
• You may want to get to the airport even earlier, as it will be your first time flying.
• It’s a good idea to check how long it will take to get to the airport through Google Maps or a similar service.

At Check-in

• When you get to the airport, what you need to do next will either depend on if you have checked in online and/or you need to check in a bag.
• If you have checked in online and only have a carry-on, you can immediately go to airport security.
• If you haven’t checked in online and/or need to check in a bag, you need to go to the airline’s check-in counter at the airport.
• You will know which counter to go to by the screen that will show the airline’s logo behind the counters.
• If in doubt, you can always ask one of the passengers in the queue if this is the check-in for your airline.
• At the check-in counter, you will be asked for your ID, which you will hand over to the agent, who will then enter your details and print your boarding pass.
• You will also be asked if you need to check in bag.
• Once you have your boarding pass, it’s time to go through airport security.

At Airport Security

• Going through airport security can be nerve wracking, as there are usually queues, so you might be nervous about holding people up, but there isn’t much to worry about.
• Place your carry on bag along with the clear, resealable bag that contains your toiletries in a security bin.
• Empty your pockets, take off your jacket, hat as well as any other items that might set off the airport body scanner and place them in the security bin. You will probably need to take off your shoes, too.
• If you’re traveling with a laptop or tablet, these will need to be placed in a separate screening bin.
• If in doubt, look at what the people ahead of you are doing.
• Hopefully, your bag passed through the scanner without any problems, but in some instances, a TSA agent may want to take a closer look at your bag.
• Once your bag has been cleared, it’s time to place the items you took out of your bag and pockets and place them back inside your bag and pockets.

After Airport Security

• After you have passed airport security, take a look at one of the many screens that will inform you of the gate you need to be for your flight, as well as the time the plane will board. Your boarding pass will also display gate information.
• Note that the boarding time might not immediately be available.
• You’ll probably have time to kill, so do some shopping, or grab a drink or bite to eat while you wait to board.
• It can also be a good idea to go to the bathroom before your flight, so you won’t have to use those tiny airplane bathrooms.
• Go to the gate, where you will find other passengers waiting to board the aircraft.
• Depending on the airline, you may be asked to board depending on whether you are sitting at the front, middle or back of the plane.
• Once your seating section is called, it’s time to board the plane, at which point a flight attendant at the desk will want to scan your boarding pass and may ask for your ID.

On the Plane

• Once you have stepped onto the plane, a friendly flight attendant will inform you where your seat is, according to what is printed on your boarding pass. If you have a middle seat, follow our guide to How to Survive the Middle Seat on a Plane.
• Find your seat and place your carry on in one of the overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you if it fits.
• Take your seat, put on your seatbelt, put your phone in airplane mode, and get ready for takeoff. If you’re overweight, you may have to ask for a seatbelt extender or bring your own, the best of which is the Mirone Adjustable Airplane Seat Belt Extender .
• Remember to stay hydrated due to the lower air pressure and humidity level on a plane. The Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) recommends drinking about 0.25 liters (or 8 ounces) of water per hour while on an airplane.
• Your ears might feel a little weird due to the change in air pressure when on a plane, but this is nothing to worry about and will pass.
• Your feet may swell if you have a long flight and you stayed seated for the duration of your flight.

After the Flight

• Once you have landed, there will be a short delay before you are allowed to get off the plane.
• Once you get off the plane, you may need to go to the baggage carousel if you checked in a bag and/or customs if you are flying internationally.

Make Sure to Bring the Correct ID

If you’re flying for the first time, it can be confusing to know what ID is necessary.

If you’re flying domestically, you need a form of ID that is recognized by the TSA , with most people using their driver’s license.

If you’re flying internationally, a passport is the only acceptable form of ID.

Related: What Do You Need to Fly Domestic ?

Pay Attention to Carry on and Checked Luggage Restrictions

It’s important to be aware of the carry on and checked luggage size and weight restrictions, so you won’t be in for any costly surprises at the airport.

While it can differ by airline:

• Carry on items must generally be no larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high. A specific weight limit is typically not stated.
• If a bag is larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high, it will be considered a checked bag. Checked bags have a maximum weight restriction of 50 lbs (23 kg).
• Personal items have a size restriction of 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high, and must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

As mentioned earlier, any liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers larger than 3.4oz/100ml should only be packed in your checked bag.

Make Sure You Bring These Essential Items

Essential items may include prescription medicine, contacts, contact lens solution , glasses, cash and credit cards, your phone etc.

You will want to make sure that these items are either kept on you or in your carry on in the unlikely event that your bag gets lost while in transit.

Don’t Worry: Flying is Exceptionally Safe

Knowing just how remarkably safe commercial air travel is can help put your mind at ease.

According to Arnold Barnett , who has calculated the chances of a plane crashing, and is an expert in the field of aviation safety and risk and Professor of Statistics at MIT:

“If you take one flight a day, you would on average need to fly every day for 55,000 years before being involved in a fatal crash.”

Additionally, it has currently never been safer to fly on commercial airlines when we consider that airline passenger fatalities have fallen significantly compared to the previous decade.

In other words, the chances of a plane crashing is the lowest it has ever been in the history of commercial aviation.

Traveling by car is in order of magnitudes more dangerous than flying, but you probably don’t worry every time you get into a car.

So there certainly isn’t anything to worry about when flying, even if it is your first time flying.

It’s Normal to Feel Some Nerves When Flying For the First Time

It’s natural to feel nervous when flying for the first time, so there are a few things we recommend to ease the nerves.

• Arrive at the airport early
• Before your flight, eat a light meal, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol
• If possible, travel with a friend or family member
• Familiarize yourself with the noises of an airplane, so you know what to expect
• Inform a flight attendant that it is your first time flying
• Pay attention to the safety instructions before takeoff
• Bring a book, listen to music, watch a movie, or connect to the plane’s Wi-Fi service if available to keep your mind occupied
• Picture your destination and how worth it will all be
• Be proud of yourself that you are taking on your fears instead of letting them dictate your life
• Sit near by an exit row if it helps calm your nerves, though exit row seats may not recline , and not everyone can sit in the exit row.
• Remember just how incredibly safe air travel is
• It may help to look at how calm the other passengers are to remind you that there is a good reason why they are so calm when flying.  Flying is completely safe and there really isn’t anything to worry about!
• Remember to take some deep breaths

Turbulence Can Be Scary, But Isn’t Actually Dangerous

Anyone who has flown enough times has likely experienced turbulence at some point.

While turbulence can feel scary in the moment, you should know that turbulence isn’t dangerous and is perfectly safe and completely normal.

Airplanes are designed to withstand even the most severe of turbulence (1.5x force on their airframes, in fact), as well as changes in atmospheric conditions. 

You May Experience Airplane Ear

When flying, it’s quite likely that you will experience airplane air, which is caused by the changes in air pressure inside the cabin, resulting in discomfort inside your ear.

There are several ways to deal with this, including yawning, chewing hard candy or gum, and wearing ear plugs.

We go into more detail in our 8 Proven Ways to Pop Your Ears After a Flight article.

Ella Dunham

Ella Dunham, a Freelance Travel Journalist and Marketing Manager, boasts an impressive career spanning eight years in the travel and tourism sectors.

Honored as one of "30 Under 30" by TTG Media (the world’s very first weekly travel trade newspaper), a "Tour Operator Travel Guru" and "Legend Award" winner, Ella is also a Fellow of the Institute of Travel, a Member of the Association of Women Travel Executives, has completed over 250 travel modules, and hosts travel-focused segments on national radio shows where she provides insights on travel regulations and destinations.

Ella has visited over 40 countries (with 10 more planned this year).

Related Posts:

First Time Flying? 35 Best Tips for First-Time Flyers

Taking to the skies for the first time can be a daunting experience, but with careful preparation, it doesn’t have to be. While you await your first time flying, there are some tips that you can use to help you have the best experience ever.

These tips work well for an international flight and domestic flights. This guide will help you understand all of the important things from the security checkpoint to understanding your boarding group – and everything in between.

In this article:

Best Tips for First-Time Flyers

1. check-in online.

Most airlines allow you to check in online up to 24 hours before your flight. This will help you avoid long lines at the airport and give you a better chance of avoiding a middle seat assignment. Online check-ins are the best because then you also have access to your flight number and gate number, right on your digital boarding pass.

Checking in online for your flight is a great way to save time at the airport. Simply log into the website or app for the airline you’re flying. There should be a button for you to press “check-in.” Once you press that button, you’ll be able to check in for your flight using your confirmation number and last name.

Don’t forget to arrive at the airport early so you can go through airport security and get to your gate on time. If you are checking bags, you will still need to go to the gate counters at the airport. Checking in online is a great way to make flying a breeze, so be sure to give it a try next time you travel.

2. Arrive early

Make sure to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight is scheduled. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s always a good idea to arrive early at the airport. Check-in and security lines can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to miss your flight because you were running late.

If you’re flying internationally, airlines typically ask you to arrive three hours before your flight.

Arriving early also gives you time to relax and grab a bite to eat before boarding. If you have any time to spare, you can also use it to do some last-minute shopping in airport stores.

Keep in mind that most flights start boarding about 45 minutes before the departure time. Also, know that many flights close the boarding door 10-15 minutes before the departure time.

So, next time you’re booking a flight, make sure to leave plenty of time for airport arrivals. It’ll make your journey that much smoother.

3. Get travel insurance

Even if you’re only flying for a short trip, it’s always a good idea to get travel insurance. This will protect you in case of any delays, cancellations, or losses. Some credit cards include travel insurance, but often have limitations.

Travel insurance can also cover you in case of injury or medical emergency or if you need to cancel your trip for any reason. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy so you know what’s covered.

Getting travel insurance is a great way to protect your finances while you’re on vacation. It’ll give you peace of mind in case anything goes wrong.

4. Join an airline loyalty program

If you fly frequently, it’s a good idea to join an airline loyalty program. These programs give you points for every flight you take, which you can then use to get free flights or other perks.

Some programs also allow you to upgrade your seat for free or get priority boarding. If you fly often, signing up for a loyalty program can help you save money and make flying more enjoyable.

5. Bring your own food and snacks

Airplane food can be expensive and not always the tastiest. To avoid spending money on airplane food, or going hungry on your flight, bring your own snacks and meals.

You can pack a sandwich, some fruit, or even some chips to munch on during your flight. Just be sure to check the airport’s rules about bringing food through security. Also, be mindful of life-threatening allergies and try to avoid bringing peanuts or tree nuts on flights.

Bringing your own food is a great way to save money and make sure you have something to eat during your flight.

6. Stay hydrated

It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re flying, as the air in airplanes is very dry. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.

You can also bring your own empty water bottle to fill up after you go through security. This will save you money and help you stay hydrated during your flight.

7. Dress comfortably

When choosing what to wear on your flight , comfort should be your number one priority. You’ll be sitting in a confined space for hours, so you want to make sure you’re wearing clothes that won’t make you uncomfortable.

Avoid wearing anything constricting, like jeans or a tight top. Instead, opt for loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics. I typically wear aerie leggings with a side pocket or prAna hiking pants. I also bring a hoodie or cardigan in case the airport or plane is cold.

Dressing comfortably is key to having a pleasant flight. Be sure to wear clothes that won’t make you feel uncomfortable during your journey.

8. Bring a neck pillow

If you want to get some sleep on your flight, be sure to bring a travel pillow . This will help you stay comfortable and avoid pain in your neck and back.

There are a variety of different neck pillows to choose from, so be sure to find one that’s comfortable for you. You can also use it on long car rides or train journeys.

9. Use noise-canceling headphones

If you want to block out the noise on your flight, be sure to bring noise-canceling headphones. These headphones will help you sleep or concentrate, and they’ll make your flight more enjoyable.

Noise-canceling headphones are also great for blocking out crying babies or chatty seatmates. Be sure to pack a pair in your carry-on bag so you can use them on your flight.

10. Bring a good book or movie

To make your flight more enjoyable, be sure to bring a good book or movie. This will help you pass the time and make your flight go by faster.

If you get motion sickness, it’s also a good idea to bring a movie to watch. Watching a film can help distract you from the motion of the plane and make you less likely to feel sick. Of course, pack some motion sickness meds like Dramamine and ginger candies.

What NOT to Do Your First Time Flying

First-time flyers have a lot to learn – and there are plenty of potential mistakes that can be made along the way. To help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of things NOT to do as a first-time flyer. For the most part, these are general rules of thumb for any airline. However, it’s always a good rule to look at the airline’s website to see what they have as acceptable and not acceptable, rule-wise.

1. Don’t forget to pack your carry-on essentials

This seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to pack important items like their passport or medications. Make a list of must-have items before you start packing, and double-check that everything is in your bag before you leave for the airport.

2. Don’t overpack your carry-on bag

While it’s important to make sure you have everything you need, there’s no need to pack your entire wardrobe into your carry-on bag. Not only will this make it difficult to lug around the airport, but it could also get you stopped at security if your bag is too heavy or overstuffed.

3. Don’t wear bulky clothes or shoes

Again, security is a consideration here – you’ll want to avoid anything that will slow you down when going through the metal detectors. In addition, bulky clothing can be uncomfortable on a long flight, so it’s best to stick with more comfortable, form-fitting options.

4. Don’t forget to pack your headphones

If you want to watch in-flight entertainment or just drown out the sound of other passengers, you’ll need a good pair of headphones. Make sure to pack them so they’re easily accessible in your carry-on bag or at your seat.

5. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your flight

This one can be a real budget-buster – airlines typically release their cheapest seats well in advance, so waiting until the last minute to book is almost always going to cost you more. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, try to book your flight at least a few weeks in advance.

You also risk limited seat options when you book too late, and no one wants to pay hundreds of dollars to find themselves stuck with only having middle seats available.

6. Don’t neglect to research your destination

Before you book your flight, take some time to research your destination and find out what there is to see and do. This will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time once you arrive.

7. Don’t skip the pre-flight safety briefing

Yes, it can be tedious to sit through another safety demonstration, but it’s important to pay attention in case of an emergency, especially for first-time flyers!

Plus, the safety briefing is your chance to find out where the exits are located – something that could come in handy if you ever need to evacuate the plane. It also helps you know the airline rules.

8. Bring something to keep your busy

Bring some books, magazines, crosswords, or whatever else you need to keep your mind occupied during the flight. Also, check to see how you can watch movies if that’s of interest. Some airlines have seatback screens, while others tell you to bring your own screen (i.e. phone or tablet) and download an app in advance to watch movies or tv shows.

Make sure you have easy access to these items, too. Your seat belt sign may be turned on and you won’t be able to access your upper bin carry-on bag, so keeping your entertainment items in a personal item bag at your feet can come in handy.

9. Don’t forget your travel documents

This one is essential – without your passport or other required travel documents, you won’t be able to get on the plane. Make sure you have everything you need before you leave for the airport and keep your documents handy to present them at security or during boarding.

Take note that if you’re flying domestically (in the USA) you don’t need a passport, but you will need an authorized government ID, like a driver’s license. Starting in May 2023, your state’s ID will need to be REAL ID compliant in order to be used to fly.

10. Don’t dress inappropriately

There’s no need to break out your best clothes for a flight, but it’s important to dress comfortably and avoid anything that could be considered offensive or inappropriate. In general, it’s best to err on the side of caution when choosing your travel outfit. Airlines have the right to refuse you boarding if your clothing is harmful or inappropriate.

Following these simple tips will help you avoid some of the most common mistakes that first-time flyers make. With a little preparation and planning, you can make your first flight an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

Tips for First-Time Flyers At the Airport

As you walk into the airport, you may be trying to understand how everything works. This section will give tips for first-time flyers at the airport. These tips will cover how to not get stressed, when you should board the plane, and everything in between.

Try not to get stressed out by security

It’s normal to feel a little anxious when going through security, but remember that everyone is just trying to do their job. Just relax and follow the instructions of the TSA agents. Keep in mind that you should move quickly and try not to get irritated at a TSA agent asking you to do something, it’s just a part of their job.

If it’s your first time flying, you likely don’t have any special security clearance like TSA PreCheck, so be prepared to remove your toiletries bag, your laptop, as well as coats, belts, and shoes. Also know that security checks can be random, so if an alert goes off and you’re moved for a secondary screening, just stay calm and follow the directions.

The security line could be considered the most stressful part of the trip, but the only way to get through it is to stay calm and allow plenty of time before your flight.

Don’t leave your bags unattended

This seems like common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many people do this. Unattended bags are a major security risk and will likely be confiscated by security. So, make sure to keep an eye on your belongings at all times. This is without a doubt a universal rule in airports. Don’t leave your bags unattended.

Double-check the weight and size of your luggage

This will save you a lot of hassle at the airport. Before you start packing, check for the size restrictions for carry-on and checked baggage for your airline. This will help you avoid any problems at the ticket counter, security, or the gate.

Make sure to weigh your bags before you go to the airport and know in advance what the fees are for checking luggage, so you’re not surprised at the check-in counter.

Don’t drink too much at the airport

You’re probably excited for your vacation and want to start relaxing as soon as possible, but it’s important not to drink too much at the airport. Alcohol can dehydrate you and make it more difficult to adjust to the time change. So, try to limit yourself to one or two drinks.

Airlines can also stop you from boarding if you’re too intoxicated. A first-time flyer should also try not to drink too much since they’ll want to be alert for the new experience and any decisions they need to make.

Grab some food before you get on the plane

If you’re flying during mealtime, make sure to grab something to eat before you get on the plane. Airplane food can be expensive and not very good. So, it’s always a good idea to have a little something in your stomach before you board.

Keep in mind that if you’re bringing any food or snacks on the plane, it’s considerate to try and avoid any strong-smelling foods that will make the plane smell.

Listen for your zone to be called

When it’s time to board the plane, they will usually call out the different zones in order. Listen for your zone to be called and then make your way to the line. Your boarding group should be marked on your boarding pass, but if you’re not sure what zone you’re in, just ask one of the gate agents.

If you want to enjoy dining and shopping at the airport before your flight, that’s fine. Just know that a general rule of thumb is to get to the gate at least 10 minutes before the plane’s boarding time. That’s BOARDING time, not flight time. Boarding time is typically around 30-45 minutes before your flight time and many airlines close the boarding gate door 10-15 minutes before the flight time.

Have your boarding pass and ID ready

This will help the process go much smoother. When you get to the front of the line, have your boarding pass and ID out so that the agent can easily scan it. If you’re fumbling around for your things, it will just hold up the line.

First-Time Flying Tips for Getting Off the Plane

Now that you’ve made it through your first flight, it’s time to get off the plane. Here are some tips for making a smooth exit:

Listen to the flight attendants

They will give you specific instructions on when and how to disembark from the aircraft. It’s important to listen to them because that’s what will get you off the plane the fastest! Always be respectful to your cabin crew, I like to always thank them when deplaning.

There will be a lot of people trying to get off the plane at the same time as you. Be patient and wait your turn. There’s no need to rush! Also, if you’re in the back, you are going to be waiting a while to get off the plane. While you may be anxious to stand up, you shouldn’t be in a big hurry because everyone else is in the same big hurry – which means everyone will be moving slowly.

Call your ride

When you land, it’s a good idea to check in with anyone who might be meeting you. This way, they will know that you’ve landed and approximately when to expect you.

Have your carry-on ready

If you have a carry-on bag, make sure it’s easily accessible so you can grab it and go as soon as it’s your turn to leave the plane. There’s nothing worse than having to dig around to find your bag when you’re trying to make a quick exit!

Follow the crowd BUT read signs

When you’re getting off the plane, it’s easy to follow the crowd. Many of them might know where they’re going and they’ll lead you to the right place. But, the best thing to do is to look for signs.

If you checked a bag, you’ll want to look for baggage claim signs. If you don’t need to go to baggage claim, you’ll likely head towards that area anyway and look for signs for ground transportation.

Hopefully, these tips will help you while you’re getting off the plane! It can be hard as a first-time flyer to know exactly what to do, but these tips will help you tremendously!

Etiquette Tips for Flying on a Plane

When you fly on a plane, there are certain etiquette rules that you should follow in order to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Be respectful of other passengers and try not to disturb them. This includes keeping your voice down, not playing music or watching videos without headphones, and being mindful of personal space.
• Follow the rules and regulations of the airline and airport. This includes things like not bringing prohibited items on the plane and following security procedures.
• Be considerate of the crew members and listen to their instructions. This includes staying seated during turbulence and putting away carry-on luggage during takeoff and landing.
• Try to be patient and understanding if there are any delays or other problems.
• The person next to you may or may not want to have a conversation with you. It’s okay to say hi and strike up a conversation if the other person seems receptive, but don’t force it if they’re not interested.
• Pay attention to the seatbelt sign. It’s there for a reason, and it’s important to follow the crew’s instructions for when to buckle up.
• Be mindful of your personal hygiene. This includes things like using deodorant, brushing your teeth, and wearing fresh clothes. It’s also considerate to not wear perfumes or colognes when flying as some people are sensitive to scents.
• If you have food or drinks, be careful not to spill them on yourself or other passengers. Also, try not to pack allergens like nuts, and avoid strong-smelling foods.
• Try to keep your belongings organized and tidy, so that you’re not taking up more space than necessary or causing a mess.
• Make sure you have your credit card handy, so you don’t have to dig for it when the snack cart rolls through.

Following these etiquette tips will help to make your flying experience more pleasant for everyone involved.

Tips for Sitting in the Small Seats on the Airplane

Sitting in a small seat on an airplane can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you are tall or have long legs. Here are some tips to make the experience more bearable:

• Wear comfortable clothing that won’t restrict your movement. Read my post on what to wear on a long flight .
• Try to book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs out into the aisle. But, don’t leave them there. People need to walk through the aisle and your feet don’t belong there.
• Another option is to book a window seat if you enjoy leaning and want to sleep as the wall of the plane makes that more comfortable than aisle seats.
• Pack some carry-on essentials to keep you comfortable and entertained.
• Pack light so you don’t have to struggle with heavy luggage in a small space.
• Bring a neck pillow and blanket to make yourself more comfortable.
• Avoid eating or drinking too much before your flight to avoid having to use the restroom frequently.
• Get up and walk around the cabin every few hours to keep your blood flowing.
• Wear compression socks to help prevent blood clots.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water during the flight.
• Protect yourself from germs by using hand sanitizer and avoiding touching surfaces in the cabin.
• Long-haul flights can be uncomfortable, so make sure you get up to use the bathroom, so you can stretch!

By following these tips, you can make sitting in a small seat on an airplane more bearable and even somewhat enjoyable. After all, it’s only for a few hours and then you’ll be at your destination!

Tips for First-Time Flying Anxiety

• Air travel is the safest mode of transportation and becoming safer. It’s more dangerous to drive or run along a street. A NY Times article quoted an MIT professor who studied air travel and he determined that “ flying has become so reliable that a traveler could fly every day for an average of 123,000 years before being in a fatal crash. ”
• Develop and learn some stress-coping techniques. Meditation, body relaxation, and calming music can help you relax and combat the anxiety you might feel about flying. If your anxiety is really bad, you can talk with a physician about prescribing you medicine to help you calm down.
• Keep busy. Load up your phone or tablet with some shows or movies you want to watch or love. Or download some great books that will hold your interest. If you have something else to focus on, it can help keep you from focusing on your fear.
• Look to the flight attendants; they fly all of the time. Seeing them at ease and going about their work as if they’re on the ground instead of the air can help put you at ease. They’re also the ones to listen to in order to stay safe. If I do have turbulence or worry, seeing them at ease always helps make me realize that everything is operating as normal.

FAQs for Your First Time Flying on a Plane

Flying on a plane can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if it’s your first time flying. But there’s no need to worry – we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about flying, from the basics of booking a ticket to what to expect during your flight.

What are the different types of aircraft?

The most common type of aircraft is the single-aisle plane, which has one aisle running down the middle of the cabin. These planes are used for short and medium-haul flights.

The next most common type is the wide-body plane, which has two aisles running down the middle of the cabin. These are used for long-haul flights. Most planes are made by Boeing or Airbus.

What are the different classes on a plane?

There are three main classes on a plane: first class, business class, and economy class. First class is the most expensive and has the most amenities, while economy class is the least expensive and has the least amenities. Business class is in between these two extremes, but closer to a first-class experience.

Many airlines have started adding a premium or comfort class to their economy cabin. These seats often have a bit more legroom, but may just include pre-boarding.

What is the difference between a non-stop flight and a connecting flight?

A non-stop flight is a direct flight from one airport to another, while a connecting flight stops at one or multiple airports along the way. Connecting flights could be cheaper than non-stop flights, but they take longer and delays may affect your plans.

There are some cases where a flight is called a direct flight but it’s not non-stop. Direct flights don’t involve changing planes or a different flight number, however, they may involve a stop at another airport to

How do I book a flight?

You can book a flight online, through a travel agent, or by calling the airline directly. When booking online, you’ll need to provide your personal information and payment details. When booking through a travel agent, they will take care of everything for you. When calling the airline, you’ll need to provide your personal information and flight details, and many airlines charge a fee for phone bookings.

Booking online directly with the airline is typically the best option for pricing and cancellation. Although, you can shop for flight options online with various travel sites and google.com/flights.

What do I need to bring with me to the airport?

When flying, you’ll need to bring your passport, boarding pass, and any other required documents. You’ll also want to pack light, as you’ll have to carry your luggage with you through the airport. Most airlines have a limit of 50lbs per bag, so be sure to check the weight and size restrictions before packing.

What can I expect during the security screening process?

All passengers are required to go through a security screening before boarding their flight. This usually involves going through a metal detector and having your bags scanned by an x-ray machine. You may also be selected for a random pat-down search.

What should I do if I’m selected for a secondary screening?

If you’re selected for a secondary screening, you’ll be taken to a private area for a more thorough search. This may involve having your bags searched by hand and being asked to remove your shoes and jacket.

What can I expect during the boarding process?

When it’s time to board your flight, you’ll need to have your boarding pass and passport ready. You’ll be asked to show these documents to the gate agent, who will then scan your boarding pass and allow you to board the plane. Once on the plane, you’ll find your seat and stow your carry-on luggage in the overhead bin.

What can I expect during the flight?

Once the plane takes off, you’ll be able to sit back and relax. The flight attendants will come around with drinks and snacks, and you can watch a movie or TV show on the in-flight entertainment system. If you need anything during the flight, just ask one of the flight attendants. They’re there to help!

What should I do if I have a problem during the flight?

If you have any problems during the flight, such as lost luggage or an issue with your seat, just ask one of the flight attendants for help. They will be able to assist you and solve the problem.

What should I do when the plane lands?

When the plane lands, you’ll need to gather your belongings and disembark the plane. If you have any checked luggage, it will be waiting for you at the baggage claim area. From there, you’ll be on your way to your final destination!

These tips for first time flyers are important. If you don’t know what to do when you fly for the first time, this guide will help you out. Once you fly on a plane for the first time, you will be good to go after that! With a little experience, you will become less and less stressed about any flight that you take!

The only thing left to pay attention to when you’re a first-time flyer is yourself. Flying can be the best thing because you get extra time to relax and enough time to finally finish that book you’ve been wanting to read.

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Kim Tate is the founder of Stuffed Suitcase, a travel blog created to help fellow women and moms plan their next trip. She lives in Seattle, WA, with her husband and two daughters. Through scenic photography and first-person storytelling, Kim inspires readers on where to go next and gives them travel tips to make traveling easier.

Kim also founded and co-hosts the family travel podcast, Vacation Mavens, and has published two books, Wanderlist, a travel planning workbook, and A to Z Alphabet Travel Coloring Book for Kids.

One Comment

These are my tips for success. Plan your entire trip carefully. Try to make some brief summary notes. Best of luck. If you can do so, please do check in online. Be kind and friendly too. I love your blog as well.

Smile at folks. It is a good idea to eat dinner at the airport. Give way to people who may be in a rush. Know the general layout of the airport. Also pay very careful attention to security rules. In other simple words it is wise to be totally smart. You can do this.

Never rush. Have fun. An airport does not have to be a scary place. Far from it in fact. Remember that always. Request assistance if that makes you feel better. Stay calm and positive. Arrive early. Recommended at all times.

Beat the long queues. Last week I was at the airport nearest my home. I got there much earlier. Straight after passing security I decided to eat. So I had a meal before going to board. It was really worth it. I ordered fish and chips. Then I did shopping in the airport. Finally I boarded.

Bring puzzles. Pack a entire suitcase in advance. Call the airport ahead of time to help yourself. Inform them you require extra time to get onto the plane in question. I took a bag full of books this time in case. I read them in the departure area of the airport.

Read beyond the lines. I was equipped with hand gel and my water bottle.

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20 First-Time Flying Tips: How to Prepare for Your First Flight

By knowing what to expect and preparing yourself, you can pack right, navigate the airport, and enjoy the exciting experience of flying for the first time.

There’s a lot to keep track of while flying. You need to make sure you have the right documents, keep your luggage within the size and weight limits, and figure out how to stay comfortable on the plane.

If you’re a first-time flier, navigating the airport, going through security, and getting on the plane might feel intimidating. Fortunately, with a little bit of preparation, your first flight can be straightforward, stress-free, and even exciting.

I’ve flown all around the world, from short hops for business trips to long-haul flights to the other side of the globe. In fifteen years of travel, I’ve taken hundreds of flights with airlines ranging from Delta to Singapore Air. I’ve traveled light with just a personal item and heavy with multiple checked bags . Over the years, I’ve learned many essential dos and don’ts, as well as a few lesser-known travel tips to make flying more comfortable and enjoyable.

I’ll walk you through the entire process, from buying your tickets to settling into your seat. When you’re done reading, you’ll feel ready to tackle your first flight with confidence.

Before You Fly

Before you embark on your first journey by air, a bit of preparation will help ensure that your flight experience is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable. From packing smart to getting familiar with your flight details, a little planning goes a long way.

Research the Airline and Flight Details

A good flight experience starts with research to find the right flight at the right price. Tap into flight booking websites and search engines like Skyscanner or Google Flights , which can simplify your search for the best fare deals.

Keep a keen eye on, not just the price, but also the layovers, flight duration, and departure times. Direct flights are faster and more convenient, but they also often cost more. By doing your research ahead of time, you can find the best flights without blowing your budget. Typically, the best time to book a flight is 1-3 months in advance.

Double Check Luggage Size and Weight Limits

Save yourself from any last-minute airport hassles by taking a moment to check your airline’s rules on luggage size and weight limits beforehand. It’s important to remember that carry-on bags and personal items have specific restrictions, and going over those limits can result in expensive fees.

Keep in mind that weight and size restrictions can vary between airlines, especially budget carriers, which tend to have stricter guidelines. It’s always a good idea to double-check the limits and measure your luggage to make sure it fits.

Make Sure You Have the Right Documents

Travel documents are your ticket to smooth sailing—or flying, in this case. For international flights, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. For domestic flights, you need a valid driver’s license or other ID.

Equally important is travel insurance; be sure to print out the details, such as the policy documents and emergency contact numbers. Keep these and other identification documents handy—you never know when you’ll need to present them.

Notify Your Bank of Your Travel Plans

Don’t let the inconvenience of a frozen bank account ruin your trip! Remember to inform your bank about your travel plans in advance. Thankfully, most banks make it super easy to let them know through their user-friendly app or website, especially if you pick a specific bank account for travelers .

By doing so, you can avoid any potential fraud alerts that might lock your credit cards when they detect foreign transactions. So, take a few minutes to notify your bank and enjoy your trip worry-free!

Dress Comfortably

The key to a comfy flight is the right travel clothing . Choose garments that are loose-fitting and breathable, and easy-to-remove travel shoes will make going through security easier.

Remember, comfort above all ensures a more pleasant flight. This isn’t the time to wear your eight-inch heels or stiff dress pants.

Pack Essential Items in Your Personal Item

A personal item on a flight is a small bag, such as a handbag, laptop case, or small backpack, that you can store under the seat in front of you during your flight.

Use it to stash away travel essentials: your wallet, travel documents, earphones, a water bottle, some snacks for the trip, and a book or tablet for entertainment. Getting all your stuff organized ahead of time ensures you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips when you need it.

At the Airport

Airports can be busy and overwhelming. There’s a lot to think about: checking your bags, getting through security, and not getting lost in the maze of terminals. By knowing what to expect, you can cut down on anxiety and navigate the airport with confidence.

Check In Online

To make your flying experience even smoother, it’s a great idea to take advantage of online check-in. Most airlines make online check-in available 24 hours before your flight, which allows you to skip the long lines at the airport counters.

Downloading your airline’s mobile app is usually the easiest way to check in online.

Not only will it save you precious time, but it also gives you the chance to select a better seat. Plus, you’ll receive a digital boarding pass right on your smartphone, which includes all the important flight details like the gate and seat numbers. How convenient is that?

Arrive at the Airport with Plenty of Time

Arriving at the airport early is always a good idea, especially for first-time flyers. Airlines generally advise getting to the airport at least three hours ahead for international flights, and two hours for domestic travels. This timeframe is especially important if you’re heading to the airport during busy holidays, have lots of bags to check, or are traveling with kids.

An unhurried pace means less stress and allows time for any unexpected delays. Remember, boarding usually begins 45 minutes before takeoff, and gates typically close 10-15 minutes prior to departure—another reason why those extra hours can make all the difference.

Empty Water Bottles Before Going Through Security

Staying hydrated is important, but don’t forget that airport security mandates empty water bottles. Rather than chugging your drink hurriedly in the security line, it’s best to finish or empty your bottle beforehand. It would be a shame to have the TSA confiscate your favorite water bottle just because it isn’t totally empty!

Just make sure to empty your water bottle before going through security, and you can easily refill it once you’re in the airside area where there are plenty of water fountains available.

Find Your Gate Early

Once you’re through security, head straight to your gate. Some airports can be a bit confusing to navigate, so it’s a good idea to find your gate as soon as possible. This way, you can avoid any unnecessary stress and be ready for boarding when the time comes.

Once you know where you need to be, you can take your time to enjoy a meal, do some shopping, or simply unwind before your flight.

Use the Bathroom Before Boarding

Before you board, make a quick pit stop at the restroom. Airplanes typically only allow passengers to use the facilities once the aircraft has reached cruising altitude — which could be a while after takeoff.

Make sure you hit the bathroom before boarding so you can have a more comfortable start to your time in the air.

During the Flight

Embarking on a flight, especially for the first time, involves more than just buckling your seatbelt and awaiting arrival. To ensure a pleasant and comfortable journey, consider the following practices during your time in the sky.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is super important during your flight! The high altitude and dry air in the cabin can really dry you out, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to keep your body happy and hydrated.

Don’t forget to refill your water bottle after going through security! It’s a great way to stay hydrated during your journey without spending extra money. Drinking water regularly can help you feel relaxed and comfortable, and even improve your sleep quality on the plane.

Start to Adjust to Your New Time Zone

Long flights often mean crossing through different time zones, and adjusting your internal clock while in the air can reduce the effects of jet lag. Simple actions like setting your watch or phone to the time zone of your destination can mentally prepare you for the change. You can also use an app like Timeshifter to help adjust and avoid jet lag.

Get a head start on adjusting to the new time zone by mimicking the nighttime of your destination. If it’s night there, take advantage of eyeshades and earplugs to get some sleep on the plane. This proactive tactic helps your body ease into the new schedule, giving you a better chance of feeling refreshed when you land.

Bring Your Own Entertainment

Sometimes, mid-range flights don’t offer in-flight entertainment systems, and even when they do, it may not be to your liking. To be prepared, make sure you have your devices loaded up with downloaded movies, TV shows, podcasts, books, or music that you enjoy. That way, you’ll have something to keep you entertained during the flight.

Remember to charge your devices fully before your departure and pack headphones—preferably noise-canceling ones for an immersive experience.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Air travel doesn’t have to disrupt your meal pattern if you plan ahead. Airport eateries often come with a hefty price tag and limited variety, so packing your own snacks is a smart and healthier alternative.

The TSA suggests including solid food items like protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts in your carry-on. These snacks require no refrigeration, are easy to pack, and provide a nutritious boost whenever hunger strikes thousands of feet in the air.

Take Stretch Breaks on Long Flights

Being confined to an airplane seat for extended periods can leave anyone feeling cramped and restless. On long-haul flights, it’s crucial to get up from your seat to stretch and walk around occasionally. This will not only improve circulation but also stave-off discomfort and stiffness.

Simple in-seat stretches for your legs, arms, and back can contribute significantly to your inflight comfort and well-being. Most airlines encourage periodic movement, so don’t hesitate to take those stretch breaks in the aisle and stay nimble during your long-distance travels.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can transform your first airborne voyage into a smooth and enjoyable part of your exciting travel adventure.

Dealing with Flight Delays and Changes

When embarking on a journey, especially by air, encountering the unforeseen is almost a rite of passage. Delays, flight changes, and cancellations can be frustrating obstacles, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate these issues with minimal stress. Here’s how to manage potential air travel disruptions:

Consider Purchasing Travel Insurance

Travel can be unpredictable, and that’s where travel insurance comes into play. Investing in a comprehensive insurance policy for your trip provides a safeguard against a range of possible hiccups. Whether you’re facing a flight delay, cancellation, or even an emergency medical situation, travel insurance has got you covered.

The best travel insurance companies offer a wide range of plans to fit your traveling style and your budget. It doesn’t have to be expensive!

Stay Updated with the Flight Status and Any Changes

As a first-time flier, it’s important to stay in the loop about your flight’s status. Luckily, airlines make it easy for you by providing updates on delays, cancellations, and gate changes. You can stay informed both at the airport and through their handy mobile apps.

Keep an eye on the departure screens, listen for announcements, and regularly check your phone for updates. This proactive approach allows you to stay one step ahead, ready to adjust your plans promptly if any changes occur. It also minimizes the risk of missed connections or surprise last-minute gate changes that can add unnecessary stress to your travel experience.

Understand Your Rights in Case of Flight Delays

Flight delays can be more than just a time-waster; they can disrupt your entire itinerary. Knowing your rights is key when faced with these situations. Should you miss your flight due to a delay for which the airline is responsible, they’re often obligated to rebook you at no additional cost.

This can also include meal and hotel vouchers if you’re facing an overnight delay. Every airline has its own policies, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before your trip.

Stay Calm and Patient

Dealing with flight disruptions can definitely be frustrating, even for experienced travelers. But it’s important to remember to stay calm and composed throughout the process.

Even if something goes wrong with your flight, getting stressed out or losing your temper isn’t going to help anything. You know what they say: keep calm and carry on.

First Time Flying FAQs

What do you do when flying for the first time.

When you’re flying for the first time, make sure to arrive early, have documents ready, dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and relax to enjoy the flight.

How does it feel to fly on an airplane for the first time?

Flying for the first time feels thrilling; the takeoff gives a rush, slight ear pressure, and a weightless sensation.

How do I stop being scared of flying for the first time?

Focus on deep breathing, bring distractions like a book or music, and remind yourself that flying is very safe.

Can I use my phone on a plane?

Yes, you can use your phone in airplane mode during the flight and connect to in-flight Wi-Fi if available.

What to do when you first get to the airport?

When you first get to the airport, check in for your flight, drop off any checked baggage, and go through security.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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47 First Time Flying Tips: Complete Steps for A Smooth Trip

• 47 First Time Flying Tips:…

Flying for the first time might seem intimidating, but it is not as complicated as it might seem. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of tips for first-time travelers to make your experience stress-free and comfortable.

Let’s begin the first time flying tips!

We’ve broken them down into four traveling sections; before your flight, at the airport, in the plane, and after landing, to help you understand each stage of your flight. And now we are ‘ready for take-off!’.

Table of Contents

Before your flight:

1. add your flight to your calendar..

Set the alarm for your flight and include the flight details on your smartphone. Make sure you have the correct date, time, and departure gate. Let others know you will be flying and give all the flight information in case of an emergency. If you book your own flight, make sure to know when to find cheap flights .

2. Create a checklist.

Give yourself some peace of mind and make a checklist of things indispensable for your trip, like chargers, medication, and passports, and a checklist of things you must do at home before leaving, like; closing the garage door, turning off the stove, and taking out the trash.

3. Know your cancelation and travel rights.

Assuming you already purchased your ticket from the best flight booking sites , learn about their cancelation rights, compensation for lost luggage and delays, and moving flight dates. This will come in handy if there are any issues during your flight, be it with your baggage or connecting flight.

4. Check-In from home.

Before the pandemic, check-in at home was optional. Now, most airlines charge a check-in fee if you don’t check-in 24 hours before your flight. In addition, print or take a screenshot to have with you and present at the check-in counter.

5. Baggage requirements.

Know the difference between a personal bag, a carry-on bag, and a check-in bag. A personal bag is like a purse, a carry-on bag is small and fits in the plane’s overhead compartment, and luggage is the heaviest bag that has to be checked in. If you’re traveling with a car seat or a stroller , make sure to check the airline’s policy about it.

6. Weigh your bag.

Each airline has slightly different weight limits on their check-in bags. Know what the limit is with your airline. If you have a connecting flight with another airline, check their bag weight limits too. You might have to pay a price difference at some point during your connection flight if there are any differences in weight limits. You must know what is included in your tickets.

7. Plan for the worst.

Load your carry-on with a change of clothes, medication, supplements, makeup, chargers, items essential for your trip, and priceless possessions in case the airline misplaces or losses your checked-in bag.

8. Pack smart.

Know what is and isn’t allowed on to avoid any issues during the security screening at the airport. For example can you bring a razor on a plane ? Check the TSA list of permitted items on a carry-on and a check-in bag. This list will help you determine what to bring and leave behind and will make the security screening process faster and without incident.

9. Arrive with time to spare.

Allocate enough time for travel and traffic from home to the airport. If traveling internationally, arrive two or three hours before your flight check-in. If you are traveling nationally, an hour or two is enough before check-in. Remember that summer is the busiest traveling time; consider this if you are traveling to a popular destination, and add an hour or two to your check-in time to avoid losing your time while waiting in line.

10. Wear comfy clothes.

Don’t hold up the line at security screenings; keep it minimal and practical by wearing comfortable clothing. Things like necklaces, lace-up boots, fashion statements, excessive jewelry, and complicated outfits will delay you and others at the security screening points.

11. Secure your travel documents.

Pack the pertinent travel documentation and ensure all your traveling documents are in order before leaving your house. Use a passport and travel organizer to secure essential documents in one place. Keep it attached to your carry-on bag.

12. Snacks for the trip.

Pack sealed snacks such as chips, baked goods, bread, solid homemade meals, and fruits. Here is s list of foods acceptable on a plane. Be mindful of others and bring food that is not smelly or messy, like tuna or soups. Keep your snacks simple.

13. Items to declare.

If you travel from abroad into the U.S.A. or the other way around, you will be provided a customs declaration form. You must fill out a declaration form and provide it at customs. Because all airports and aircraft are different, ask an airport staff or a police guard to point you in the right direction. These include baby carriers, baby formula, car seats, golf tour bags, snowboards, technical instruments, cash, and expensive gifts, among other things.

14. Carry an empty water bottle.

Water bottles with water are not acceptable through the security screening checkpoint; however, you can always refill them once inside the airport gates.

15. Choose a ride to the airport.

Plan your ride to the airport ahead of time. If you take a car, keep the parking ticket somewhere you will remember. Also, allocate time for the shuttle bus to take you to your gate since it can take time from your flight check-in. If hiring a car service, ensure rides are available close to your location.

16. Mark your bags.

Add tags, stickers, or anything else you can use to identify your travel bag at the conveyor belt and avoid mistakenly taking the wrong bag. If you want to tighten the privacy of your things, add a key or combination lock to your check-in bag.

17. Bring your entertainment.

Examples of things to pack are an e-reader, card game, notepad and pen, downloaded movies, laptop, tablet, or anything else you use to stay distracted. Charge your electronics before your flight to use them throughout your flight.

18. Get comfy.

Planes are uncomfortable. If you are going on a long flight, bring a neck pillow, blanket, blindfold, warm socks, or anything that helps you sleep and relax. The traveling process is already stressful, so it’s good to catch a few hours of sleep while you can.

19. Don’t overpack.

You are responsible for bringing back everything you pack. So do yourself a favor and pack the absolutely necessary and leave space for souvenirs and anything else you buy along your trip.

20. Anxiety, medication, and cabin pressure.

If you take anxiety medication, keep your prescription with you and any other medication you need. In addition, drink water, chew gum, or swallow saliva constantly to avoid the effects of cabin pressure on your ears. If you feel sick, let the airplane staff know, they will help you nurse your flying symptoms.

21. Check pandemic requirements.

While most countries have returned to somewhat normal activities, it’s essential to be informed of the COVID-19 restrictions of the country you are departing from and arriving. In addition, the airline you are traveling with should have information on their website about the requirements of the country you are traveling to.

At the airport:

22. find your check-in counter..

Check-in your bags and find your gate. The airline staff will point you to your gate and give you any information you need for your trip. If you have questions about your trip, COVID-19 restrictions, or connecting flight, this is the right place to ask them. If you’re flying with a lap infant , you might be able to ask the staff for a seat with empty seat next to it.

23. Keep your things with you at all times.

Don’t leave your things, bags, or documents unattended or trust them to others. On that same note, don’t lend your things or hold items for people you don’t know. Finally, if you find unattended bags or suspicious-looking items left behind, don’t pick them up. Instead, report them to the airport staff.

24. Not the place for jokes.

Don’t make inappropriate jokes about the safety of the plane, airport, or your fellow passengers while at the airport or during security screening. No matter how well-meaning you think you are, airport security takes any mention of compromised security seriously.

25. Be ready for the security screening.

When you approach the security screening line, pay attention to the instructions from the staff. Be cooperative. This is why dressing comfortably is practical and packing only the essentials is important, so you don’t take a long time and hogg the line.

Once done, ensure all your belongings and travel documents are in your possession from the trays. Then, make an inventory of the things you took off and the things you got back. If something is missing is probably being inspected by the security staff. You might be pulled to the side and asked questions about it. This is part of the security screening procedures.

26. Find your gate.

If you arrive early, your gate might still need to be announced. Keep an eye on the monitors inside the airport to find the right gate using your flight code. As soon as your gate is announced, head that way. Stay within your gate area and check the flight monitor regularly to see if the gate designated for your flight has changed last minute.

27. Fill up your water bottle.

Once you pass the security screening and are closer to your gate, find a water fountain to fill up your drink.

28. Take a bathroom break.

Airplane bathrooms are small and uncomfortable. Instead, use the restroom at the airport before your flight.

29. Charge your electronics.

Most airplanes have weak power charging stations. So save your battery for the flight or charge your electronics while you wait for your flight at airport charging stations.

30. Last chance to shop.

Ideally, you would get all your snacks outside the airport since it’s more expensive once inside. But things happen, so this will be your last chance to buy snacks, coffee, gum, books, or magazines or check out the duty-free area.

In the plane:

31. board with your zone..

Wait until your boarding zone is announced to get in line to board. The boarding zone will be printed on your ticket. There is an order of things that flows easily if everyone follows the instructions. Avoid waiting in the wrong line by paying attention to the instructions from the flight attendants at the check-in counter.

32. Find your seat.

Make sure you find the right seat. If you didn’t buy a seat with your ticket, you will be given a randomly assigned seat. Ask the flight attendants to help determine if you have a window, middle, or hallway seat.

Some facts about seats for your next trip: economy class usually has 31 in seat pitch, premium economy offers 38 in, and business class boasts 55 in. More about this in our articles:

• Economy vs Premium Economy
• Business Class vs Premium Economy

33. Emergency seats.

If you are assigned a door seat, you need to be mentally and physically capable of following through with the emergency procedures. If you are not ready to assume these responsibilities, let the stewardess know immediately before the flight.

34. Stow away your carry-on bag.

No matter how compact your carry-on is, it has to be in your overhead compartment. Be mindful when loading your things to avoid hitting anyone with your bag when pulling it up or bringing it down. If you see a person struggling to get their bags in the compartment, offer help, this will help the line move along faster.

35. Personal bags go under the seat.

Keep your personal bag under the seat in front of you and keep the walkway tidy for your fellow passengers.

36. Listen to the safety talk.

The stewardess will give a safety talk showing you what to do in an emergency. You must understand the information that she is providing. Read the safety sheet on the backrest before you and obey the seat belt signs.

37. Practice plane etiquette.

Your seat is your personal space. Keep your space tidy. Make conversation if the person next to you is willing to talk. Wear headphones or earbuds to listen to music or watch a movie. Turn off your light at night. If you are traveling with kids, watch them and ensure they don’t physically invade the space of passengers around them.

38. Stretch often.

Keep your blood pumping by doing proper stretches on your seat or walking around the plane every hour if it’s a long flight. You can do many exercises that don’t require you to move from your seat.

39. Recline with caution.

Be mindful of you the person behind you. Even though seats are meant to recline, some people may physically struggle, and having a person recline might confine them to their chair. If you decide to recline up or down, take a moment to look back at the person behind you and do so slowly to give them time to prepare.

40. Alcohol consumption.

The airplane staff will closely monitor those who drink to ensure they don’t disrupt other passengers, start conflict, or create an unsafe environment. Then, the airplane staff can decide if they will stop serving you alcohol and if any other safety measure needs to be taken. Know your limits if you are going to indulge in a drink. Don’t be the drunk passenger on the plane.

41. Respect the flight attendants.

Flight attendants are professionally trained to keep passengers comfortable and safe, among other tasks. They are not maids; treat them with respect.

After landing:

42. don’t leave anything behind..

Do an inventory of your things to ensure you take all your belongings. If you leave any items behind, contact your flight’s airline to report the missing items. The airline will work with you to help you recover them.

43. Don’t push and shove.

The plane disembarks by zones; wait until it’s your turn to get out. Let the ones ahead of you come out before pushing your way through the line. Remember to hold your bags in front of you as you exit the plane to avoid those who are sitting hitting others with them.

44. Connecting flights.

If you have a connecting flight, look at the flight monitors and find your next gate. If you are having issues finding your way ask the airport staff or find your airline’s customer service desk so they can help you be on your way. If an issue with your flight causes you to be late for your connecting flight, go to the airline’s counter, and they will help you fix your problem. This is where your travel insurance and knowing your travel come in handy.

45. Go to baggage claim.

If it’s a national flight, pick up your bags at baggage claim and exit the airport to your destination. However, if it’s an international flight, you must claim your baggage, stop at customs, return the customs declaration forms, and then cross the last baggage check-up.

46. Double check you have the right bag.

Don’t make the mistake of picking up someone else’s bag. Instead, look for the tags you used to identify your bags. If you happen to take someone else’s bag, report it to the airline and return it. If the airline losses or delays your bag, report it at the baggage claim office.

47. Remove airplane tags.

This is the last tip that will prepare you for your next flight but remove any airplane tags from your bags to avoid confusion on your next trip.

In conclusion

Remember, everyone had to fly for the first time at some point, and you might be one of many doing so that day. It will be nerve-wracking and stressful, no matter how prepared you are.

Embrace the challenge, stick to these tips, ask for help if you need to and consider that you are one of many traveling somewhere unknown for the first time; you are not alone.

Related Articles

• Airport Check In: Your 38 Most Asked Questions Answered
• Getting Your Luggage During a Layover: Here’s How
• Business Class vs Premium Economy: Worth The Cost?
• When to Find Cheap Flights – 18 Tips to Get Cheap Tickets
• 12 Best Booking Sites for Flights: Kiwi, Skyscanner, & More

Author:  Arietza Contreras

Arietza C. Camargo was born in Mexico, lived in Houston, TX, and currently resides in Split, Croatia. Arie has a degree in Occupational Safety and Hygiene but discovered her love for writing soon after working in that field. She founded her current blog (Arietza.com) and began a career as a content writer. Today, she is a lifestyle and travel blogger and content writer.

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• 27 Best Tips for Flying for the First Time

Flying for the first time can be both exhilarating and frightening. There are many things you can do to make it easier and less stressful, though! I’ve rounded up 27 of the best first time flying tips to make it that much easier for you.

If this is your first time flying, much of your anxiety likely comes from just not knowing for sure what to experience. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to prepare ahead of time!

Knowing things like what to expect while going through security, what’s the best thing to wear on an airplane, and advice on avoiding extra luggage fees can be a game changer when it comes to being comfortable on your first flight.

Here are 27 travel tips for first time flyers that will have you flying like a pro on your very first flight.

1 Dress Comfortably

One of the best first time flyer tips is to dress comfortably and to make sure you have layers.

Sitting on a cramped plane for hours can be a nightmare if you’re wearing clothes that are restrictive or make you uncomfortable.

Not only are you in a cramped space with little ability to move around, but pressure changes during the flight can cause your body to feel bloated or your legs to swell.

Make sure you wear unrestrictive clothing, comfortable shoes, and have a sweater or jacket in case you get cold once you’re in the air.

You’ll also thank yourself for wearing comfy clothing the first time you have to climb over another passenger to use the restroom!

By Tawnya at Money Saved is Money Earned

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RELATED: Road Trip Essentials: Make Sure to Pack These in Your Car

2 Stay Hydrated

If you want to experience an enjoyable flight, staying hydrated is key. Airplanes create a humid environment, which can quickly lead to nausea, tiredness, and headaches. And a headache is the last thing you want at 40,000 feet!

Staying hydrated on a plane isn’t difficult. You should ensure that you drink plenty of water before and throughout the flight.

Equally, you will want to avoid coffee and alcohol (no matter how tempting the complimentary booze might be!) as these will dehydrate you even more.

Drinking water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated on a plane though. One way to see just how dehydrating airplanes are is by looking at your skin after a flight. With the harsh air conditioning blasting in your face for several hours, your face will quickly dry out.

You can overcome dry skin by packing a small moisturizer or facial spritz to apply throughout the flight.

A good lip balm is a must, too, to combat dry and painful lips! And finally, you may benefit from packing a nasal spray too, to avoid dry and painful sinuses.

By Hannah at Get Lost

3 Use Points to Pay for Your Flight

If you’re a first time flyer, you may not be aware that you can use credit card points to pay for your ticket.

Every airline has a reward program and you can sign up to start earning miles with them from your very first time flight experience.

However, unless you fly on that particular airline often, it’s going to take quite a while to rack up enough miles for a free flight.

Another option is to select a credit card that has a great sign up bonus and use those points to pay for your ticket.

The way this works is like this: once you’re approved for the card you applied for, you’ll typically have three months to put a certain amount of spend on it.

Once you’ve done that, the bonus points will be yours to spend as you choose!

At the time of this writing, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a sign up bonus of 60,000 points. You’ll need to spend $4,000 within three months to meet the requirement.

You can use that 60,000 points to splurge on something like a first class round trip ticket to Europe or go the more economical route and you’ll be able to book a few domestic economy flights.

Using points to pay for flights is one of the best flying for the first time tips there is. Use your points wisely and you’ll be flying for the second, third and fourth time in no time!

By Karee at Our Woven Journey

4 Know How to Get Over Jet Lag Quickly

Jet lag occurs when you travel quickly to a new time zone which alters your natural circadian rhythm. It can cause fatigue and insomnia whilst you adjust, and the more time zones you travel through, the more affected you can be. Generally, the effects of traveling from west to east can be worse.

Our internal clock becomes mixed up partly due to a difference in exposure to light so one way to alleviate symptoms and help you recover from jet lag faster is to get outside soon after flying.

Exposure to natural daylight will reduce the release of melatonin hormones that make you sleepy and help wake you up so that you can stick to the schedule in your new time zone.

Melatonin products can help the other way around too, and help you to drift off if you are struggling.

And, drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight, as dehydration will make it worse! 

By Rosanna at Rosanna Etc.

5 Use Packing Cubes

One of the most surprising first-time flying tips is to use packing cubes. This seems an almost oxymoron because you are putting your stuff into more stuff.

However, since packing cubes use compression technology, it makes your stuff take up so much less space. They usually have multiple zippers, the first to secure the contents and the second to compress the size down.

There are two strategies for utilizing packing cubes: the first strategy is to pack your daily outfit in each cube (or your family’s outfits), the second strategy is to pack by item in each cube.

I recommend packing by outfits, as this will enable you to turn them and put the dirty items in that same cube.

Usually, the packing cubes come in packs of three of multiple sizes. The smallest is perfect for your first day comfortable outfit and pajamas the night you arrive.

Make sure to tuck this into your carry-on just in case your checked luggage arrives late. Packing super light in a carry-on will make your flight less stressful.

By Rebecca at Whatever Packs Your Bag

6 Download Movies Before Your Flight

An excellent way to keep yourself entertained during a flight is to download a selection of Netflix or Amazon Prime movies to your device.

Some flights don’t come with onboard entertainment and others charge extra for a movie package. Instead of relying on the airline, it is a great idea to prepare your own entertainment.

If you already have a Netflix or Amazon subscription, all you need to do is download your favorite show to be able to watch it in offline mode.

You won’t be able to do this once you’re on the plane and don’t have wi-fi, so add this to your travel checklist to do before you travel. You can watch them on your phone, but for the best experience, watch can movies on one of these lightweight  laptops for traveling . 

Netflix and Amazon Prime both have a wide selection of shows. You can spend the flight time learning Spanish or watching a fascinating documentary.

Time passes more quickly when you’re watching your favorite shows which helps a lot, especially if you have trouble sleeping on a plane.

And before you know it, it will be time to land!

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams 

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7 Know How to Book Cheap Flights

Preparation for a flight actually starts when searching for a flight because no one wants to pay more than they have to.

Luckily, there are several tricks to help you find the cheapest flight possible.

First, be flexible with your travel dates when searching for flights. Some days of the week, month and year are cheaper than others. The larger your date range, the easier it is to pick the cheapest moment to fly.

Second, compare different airlines through a price comparison site such as Skyscanner. This way you’re sure to find the most affordable carrier. Websites of the airlines themselves are often the most expensive!

Third, don’t be lured into paying for extras.  Be especially aware of low-cost airlines  trying to upsell additional services: from extra luggage and priority boarding to selling lottery tickets on the plane itself. Most of these things you don’t need at all so be strict with yourself and keep your budget in mind.

By Emma at Emma’s Roadmap

8 Pack Valuables in Carry-On Luggage

If you are planning to travel and pack both a carry-on bag and checked luggage, this one is for you.

When it comes to flying on any airline, even if it’s rated number one in the world, there is always the possibility that your checked luggage will go missing. Especially if you have connecting flights!

Make sure to pack your valuables in your carry on luggage and store them in the overhead bins or below the seat in front of you. 

Valuables can include many things. Firstly, make sure to carry your passport, wallet with money, and any high-value jewelry in a sling bag or concealed purse that you keep on your person at all times.

Secondly, keep essential medications and vitamins in your carry-on luggage (never in checked luggage!) as these cannot be replaced easily while you travel.

Thirdly, place your electronics, including your best camera for travel , phone, laptop and even drone in your carry-on luggage.

If you plan to carry a drone with you, ensure you pack the drone batteries in your carry on luggage, and the body of your drone in checked luggage. Always store battery packs in your carry-on.

As a good rule of thumb while travelling, never store your valuables far from reach!

By Haley of HaleyBlackall.com

9 Choose Your Seat Wisely

Going on your first flight is an exciting experience that you will always remember. That is why it is important to choose your seats wisely! If you choose the wrong seat, your flight won’t be as enjoyable. Between catching beautiful views and stretching your legs, your seat choice can have a huge impact on your trip. 

If your first flight is a short one, you should choose a window seat. The view from the window is always amazing. Between watching cities fade into the distance, beautiful sunsets, and cars that look like ants, you will be amazed by everything you can see from an airplane. 

While window seats are ideal for short flights, you may be uncomfortable during a long flight . During a long flight, the best seats to choose are aisle seats. This is especially true if flying on a large airplane. Sitting in the aisle seat allows you to stretch your legs and use the bathroom as needed. There is nothing worse than crawling over strangers on a long flight to go to the bathroom!

If you really want to make sure you get the best seat on the plane, use SeatGuru for reviews of the aircraft you’ll be flying.

By Gabby at Journey to the Destination

10 Bring a Neck Pillow and Blanket

When you head out on a flight, you want to be comfortable, and often the air conditioning is too cold, or the seats are uncomfortable. A good idea is to bring  eco friendly travel products  like a comfortable neck pillow so you can sleep well without hurting your neck and a blanket to stay warm. There is nothing worse than feeling cold on a flight.

A sarong is also a great versatile piece of travel accessory to bring. Taking this on the plane means you can re-use it on the beach or cover up if you are entering temples during your trip. It is super lightweight and takes up pretty much no space.

An extra pair of socks can also be ideal for the flight. Why not make them big and fluffy for extra comfort?

By Linn at Brainy Backpackers

11 Savvy Use of Your Carry-On Allowance

Depending on where you’re traveling to, sometimes you might only have carry-on luggage and some airlines are extremely strict with what you can take. In fact, some economy airlines will only allow one cabin bag so if you have more than one item, such as a purse and a backpack, one needs to fit inside the other.

The ultimate hack for first time flyers is knowing how to extend your carry-on luggage allowance. If you buy something in the airport (no matter how small), provided it comes in an airport carrier shopping bag, this becomes an extension of your carry-on luggage.

So, if you’ve already packed your cabin bag tight, use the shopping bag to hold all the essentials that you want to use on the flight. Not only does this mean you don’t have to keep getting up to take things out of your bag, but it also means more space.

If your airline isn’t quite as strict, it’s still handy to have one big carry on and one item that’s small enough to fit under your seat without being uncomfortable, but big enough to have all your essentials in it.

Don’t stress, just fly savvy.

By Kerry Hanson from  VeggTravel

12 Be Ready to Go Through Security Checkpoints

One of the most nerve-wracking parts of flying can be dealing with airport security. Even experienced travelers can have irrational anxiety dealing with getting their liquids ready and having laptops prepared to go through the detectors.

Because it’s an anxious time for everyone, people in line can also be quite rude. If you are slowing down the line, you risk alienating a massive line of people. No one wants to start their first flight that way.

While you’re in line for security, be sure to start preparing for the scanners right away.

You will need to remove any jackets or sweaters (you’ll need to go down to your lowest layer). Take all the items out of your pockets – or wear pants with no pockets to skip this step. Try to wear pants that don’t need a belt or take it off while you’re in line. 

Keep your shoes on in line! Airport floors are gross – and some airports don’t require you to take them off. 

When you pack your carry-on, be sure to put all the items that need to come out at security on one side. Laptops, tablets, and liquids will need to be removed. If you put your liquids in a small bag or Ziploc, it’ll make this even easier.

Also, keep in mind that any liquid containers have to be 3.4 oz or smaller and need to be packed together in one quart-sized ziplock bag.

By Nina of Nina Out and About

13 Use a Foot-Sling To Relieve Back and Leg Pain

If you suffer from low back or leg pain, the idea of sitting in a cramped airplane seat isn’t all that appealing. Shorter flights may not be a problem, but flights over a couple of hours long can be a pain, literally! One of the best travel accessories you can pack to help alleviate the pain is a foot-sling to use on your flight.

To use it, you simply lower the tray on the seat back in front of you, place the strap over the arms of the tray and then close the tray again. You can adjust the height of the sling as needed to make it as comfortable as possible for your back and legs.

One thing to note is you’ll want to be aware of the person sitting in the seat in front of you. Always take your feet out of the sling before you lower the tray or it will jolt their chair. Treat them like you would want to be treated and you’ll be fine.

You also want to be sure you’re not putting unnecessary pressure on the tray arms as you get comfortable.

Most foot-slings roll up small and take up very little space as a personal item in your carry-on bag. It can make a huge difference in how comfortable you are while sitting for hours, so if back or leg pain is an issue for you, you’ll definitely want to bring one of these along! This is one of the best tips for first time flying because once you get it, you can use it for every flight from now on.

14 Use a Travel Credit Card With the Best Perks

Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the  best travel secrets  every new traveler should know about. You can get access to airport lounges included in your credit card membership through Priority Pass. The lounges are available in many airports and some even have multiple lounges you can visit on the same day!

Not only that, there are many other benefits of using the card including a large signup bonus where you can receive credit towards purchasing a flight or other travel perks.

In addition, you are covered for car insurance when you rent a car so there are many wonderful perks that outweigh the cost of the membership.

You also get $300 credit off travel purchases so although there is an annual fee for the card, it’s reduced by this and the many other benefits that pay for themselves. If you’re a first-time traveler and hope to travel a lot more often, then this card is amazing and will have you prepared to travel the world. 

Jackie of  Jou Jou Travels

15 Avoid Extra Luggage Fees

The quickest way to blow your travel budget before even stepping on a plane is being charged an unexpected fee for an oversize or overweight suitcase.

Most airlines charge for any type of checked baggage and some even charge for a carry-on. This can vary based on the type of ticket you bought as well. Before the trip, head straight to the source and check the airline’s website for specifics.

But don’t stop there! Be sure to check the airlines bag size and weight limitations too. A carry-on that is too big may have to be checked, with an additional bag fee. The easiest mistake, one that I have made and seen many others make, is trying to check an overweight bag.

Many airlines have a 50 pound limit. Sometimes 1-2 extra pounds can be ok, but not always. You can either take out a few pounds and add them to your your carry-on, or get stuck with an oversize bag fee upwards of $100.

All it takes is a few extra minutes of research, some measuring and weighing to avoid those extra fees. I recommend packing a luggage scale to use on the way home. Those souvenirs can get heavy!

By Hailey at America My Beautiful

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16 Avoid Ear Pain

For a lot of people, flying can lead to pain in the ears due to changes in air pressure. This can be quite uncomfortable, and sometimes even pretty painful. There are a few different tricks that can help with equalizing the pressure in your ears while flying in order to lessen the discomfort and pain.

One of the simplest things you can do to limit ear pain from flying is to drink plenty of water before and during your flight. The airplane air is dry, which makes the nasal mucous thicker and more likely to clog your Eustachian tubes (the tubes that connect your throat to your ears). Drinking also encourages swallowing, which can help equalize ear pressure. Other things you can do to help open your Eustachian tubes are chewing gum and yawning.

If none of the above tips work, you can try something called the Valsalva Maneuver to help clear your ears. To do this, keep your mouth closed, pinch your nose closed, and gently exhale – this should push air through your tubes and help them open up.

By Sydney at A World in Reach

17 Always Use Carry-On Luggage

If you’re new to all of the airport protocols, packing can be a serious challenge!  To make it simple, learn how to pack in a carry-on bag – no matter your trip length.  Not only will it make your travels easier by knowing exactly what you brought with you, but you’ll see a number of other advantages.  

With just a carry-on, you can save time at check-in and upon arrival at your destination since you won’t have to wait for your bag at the baggage claim. You’ll also be able to avoid the high baggage fees airlines have implemented, not to mention you won’t have to worry about your luggage, or anything in it, going missing! 

And, best of all, if there are any changes to your travel plans, you’ll always have your bag with you!

To pack in a carry-on, first you’ll need to know what size bag your airline considers a carry-on and find the right luggage.  From there, you’ll want to make sure your liquids pass TSA’s rules with each individual container being no larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters and all containers fitting into one quart-sized plastic bag.

Beyond that, you’ll need to pick your clothing wisely and avoid overpacking.  From creating a capsule travel wardrobe to rolling your clothes and using packing cubes, your luggage will be compact and ready to go whenever you are!

By Julia at A Cure For Curiosity

18 Bring Your Own Snacks

Whether your flight is just a short hour, or a long trans-continental journey, you should always bring snacks aboard! Especially in the current environment where delays are common, and you never know how long you may be stuck at the gate, or even worse, in the plane on the tarmac. 

As far as what to bring, keep it simple. Things that do not require refrigeration and that can get jostled around are best, like protein bars and trail mix.

Try to avoid empty calories like candy, or salty things like chips. Hydration is very important on flights so in addition to avoiding salty snacks, also remember to fill up your water bottle after going through security.

For longer flights, you may need something a little more substantial. Wraps are pretty durable and much easier to eat than salads or sandwiches.

Don’t bring something that will waft through the air gagging other passengers like tuna. A turkey or cheese wrap can last a good few hours, and so can cheese and crackers, or yogurt. Best of all, these will provide needed protein and keep you energized. 

One last tip, when bringing snacks on flights, remember your napkins!

By Denise from  Chef Denise

19 Sign Up for Frequent Flyer Programs

Step one when you’re flying for the first time on a new airline is to sign up for their frequent flyer program.  This way all of your profile information will be attached to your frequent flyer account number, making it easier for you to book future flights without re-entering the same data again. 

Also, you will start accumulating miles right away and build them up over time, hopefully to the point of earning a free flight! 

Feel free to make your flight reservation on the computer but afterwards, download the airline’s cell phone app so your data will be in accessible format throughout your trip, whether you have a nonstop flight or a  long airport layover .

With your airline’s app you can view or change your seat, receive notifications about departure gate, time or delays, track your bags and access in-flight entertainment and wifi.  You can even use it as a digital boarding pass so there’s no need to carry around the paper version.  Each airline’s app may have different features but it’s definitely worth it to download and use the app during your first flight.  

By Jenny at Global Game Plan

Related: What is the Southwest Companion Pass and why you should get it

20 Download Audiobooks Ahead of Time

Having a variety of entertainment within reach can vastly improve a flight experience. Energy and mood levels fluctuate so it’s important to have a selection of activities or media at your disposal.

Feeling reflective? Jot down your thoughts in a journal. Looking for mindless entertainment? A few downloaded movies or TV shows might fit the bill. Do your eyes need a break from reading a book or watching a screen? Listen to an audiobook.

One advantage of audiobooks is that they’re available from  different sources at reasonable prices. Or they can be sourced from your library free of charge from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. A more robust inventory is available with a subscription-based service such as Audible.

Downloaded, audiobooks take up no space (only the digital variety) so they’re a perfect choice for packing light travellers. Many audiobooks synchronize nicely with travel plans by heightening anticipation or enriching a person’s appreciation of a destination.

Fictional works set in a particular time or place, a biography of a national figure, or a homegrown author with cultural insights can contribute to a more meaningful travel experience.

If audiobooks aren’t yet part of your in-flight checklist or pre-trip packing list , take a test run at home while driving, gardening, or completing mundane tasks. They’ll help make your next flight much more enjoyable.

By Anne at Packing Light Travel

Get a complimentary 30 day trial to Audible, including one free book

21 Use MyTSA App

One of the biggest stresses of flying for the first time can be not knowing how crowded the airport will be when you get there. Knowledge is power, though and you can at least get a reasonable estimate by downloading the MyTSA app before you go.

You’ll be able to see how busy the airport is likely to be on your specific day and time of travel. You’ll also be able to check estimated wait times to get through the security checkpoints.

This can be super helpful when flying for the first time! The standard advice most airports give is to arrive two hours early for a domestic flight and three hours for an international flight. While that holds true for most airports, it’s not always accurate.

For instance, smaller airports are rarely as busy as a larger airport. Being able to check the app to see how busy it will be for your first flight will help you decide how much time you actually need.

Remember, it’s always better to be early than late, but checking the app can help you decide just how early you need to be. The MyTSA app is available in the iTunes and Google Play app stores.

22 Get TSA Pre-Check

If you have plenty of time before you’ll be flying for the first time, consider getting approved for TSA PreCheck. Not only will it save you time going through security, it will make the process much easier for you. That’s a big relief for anyone with first time flying anxiety.

As you get to the security line at the airport, you’ll notice there is a separate line for those with TSA PreCheck. It is almost always short than the main line. That’s partly because most people don’t have access to it.

It’s also because those who have applied for TSA PreCheck have already had a security check done by the government. Therefore, the screening process at the airport is minimal.

You won’t need to remove anything from your carry-on bags. That means you can leave your liquids (although they still have to be 3.4 oz or less and all fit in a quart-sized bag) in your carry-on. Same goes for leaving your electronics in your bag.

You also won’t have to take your off your shoes, belt or light jacket as you would if you went through the main security line. This makes it so much easier and less stressful to pass through security!

To get approved for TSA PreCheck, apply for it online . The cost is $85 and it lasts for five years. Even if you don’t plan to fly often, it’s definitely worth considering!

Another option is to apply for a travel credit card that covers the cost as one of its benefits. Chase Sapphire Reserve is a great option since it covers the cost of the TSA PreCheck along with the Priority Pass to airport lounges as was mentioned above.

23 Pack a Small Bag for All Your Inflight Things

Getting situated on a plane can be stressful for even an experienced traveler, but when you’re flying on a plane for the first time it can be even worse. Here’s a smart travel tip that can make your 1st time flying experience go so much more smoothly. Pack all the little things you think you’ll need during the flight into a small bag.

Then, when you get to your seat you can easily remove it from your carry-on bag or backpack, store everything else and sit down in your seat. You won’t need to take any time get situated just to find your headphones in one bag, your laptop in the other and where did you stash your snacks anyway?

Get yourself a small bag and while you’re packing for your first flight, think about what you’ll want out while you’re on the plane. Pack the things like gum, small snacks, earbuds, phone charger, eye mask, your foot sling (see above) and any other little thing that tends to be hard to locate when you’re in a hurry.

Instead of standing in the aisle blocking others while you find what you need, you’ll be able to quickly grab your bag, put your carry-on or backpack away and sit down without worrying where all your things are.

Of course you may still want to grab things like your laptop or bento box (you’re packing your own snacks, right?), but those are easy to find and shouldn’t take you long to get situated. The main thing is to have all the little things you’ll want packed into one single bag you can grab and be done.

Then you can sit down, relax and enjoy your first time flying on an airplane!

Click to view our recommendation

24 Keep Your Passport, ID and Boarding Pass Handy

There are many first time flyers tips and this one is important. You want to decide on one place to keep your passport, ID and boarding pass and keep them there at all times. This needs to be someplace that you can easily retrieve and then put away quickly.

If you’re checking any bags or printing a boarding pass at the airport, you’ll need to show your ID. Once you’ve got your boarding passes, either hold on to them until you get to security, or put them in an easy to grab location. Never set them down anywhere!

The best tip for going through security is to put them in a secured place, but keep your eye on that bag in particular as you go through. Ideally, you want to try to time it so that you’re going through the medal detector while your bags are going through the xray machine. That way, your important things are not left unattended for someone to (accidentally?) grab while you’re not looking.

At this point, you’ll only need your boarding pass to get on the plane. You can put your other ID safely away, but you never want it to be far out of reach. Don’t put it in your carry-on bag because there’s always the chance there won’t be enough room for everyone’s bags and yours might end up getting checked.

The easiest way to always know where your passport, ID and boarding passes are is to keep them in a designated holder. When you’re flying in a plane for the first time, you want things to go as smoothly as possible and this is one way that will definitely help you.

Click to view our recommendations

25 Consider Wearing Compression Socks

You don’t need to have problems with circulation to benefit from wearing compression socks when flying, especially if it’s a long flight. Many people with a history of blood clots or poor circulation are understandably concerned about flying. Sitting for so long can cause problems, but wearing compression socks can help considerably.

While the benefit of wearing compression socks while flying is that they can help increase blood circulation, if you suspect any problems with your circulatory system, be sure to talk to you doctor before your flight.

There are several types of compression socks, but most people will benefit from wearing the kind that can be purchased at the pharmacy or online. If you’re flight is more than five hours, consider getting yourself some to wear. They are also good for long car rides, so you can save them to use for another time.

Be sure to put them on before you get to the airport though! Since they are meant to be tight, you wouldn’t want to wait until you got on the plane to try and put them on.

26 Use the Restroom Before Boarding

You may have seen movies or pictures of restrooms on airplanes, but if this is your first time flying, I don’t think you can picture just how small they really are. The less time you need to spend in it, the happier you’ll be!

Some good advice for first time flyers is to plan to use the airport restroom just before time for boarding. Since you’re going to want to stay hydrated while on your flight, using the restroom before you board will lesson the number of times you’ll need to go before you land again.

If your flight is a short one, you may be in luck and not even need to use the restroom on the plane. Either way, once you board you won’t be allowed to use that one until your flight has taken off, the plane has leveled off and the captain turns off the seatbelt sign.

This could easily be an hour, so even if you think you don’t have to go before you board your plane, go anyway. Especially if you’re traveling for the first time with kids!

27 Bring Your Own Headphones

Gone are the days when airlines handed out free headphones to everyone on the flight. Nowadays, unless you’re flying in first class or international travel, you need to plan to bring your own.

Some airlines have headphones for purchase, but you can’t count on that either. Of course, not all planes even have entertainment systems for you to plug into. If you’ve read the other tips for first time flyers we’ve already mentioned, you’ll know you should already plan to bring something to watch movies on anyway.

One thing to mention is that if the plane does have an entertainment system, it may have a two-pin socket. If that’s the case, you’ll need an adaptor to be able to plug your headphones in. This really only makes sense if you don’t plan on downloading your own movies to watch.

Another reason to bring your own headphones is to help with noise cancellation, especially if you’re flying at night. Something first time flyers might not realize is that the engines on airplanes can be loud. You may be seated near young children who can be loud. It’s also the universal symbol for “please don’t talk to me” if you’re sitting next to someone chatty.

Seriously, headphones are useful for more than just watching movies! Whether you pack an inexpensive pair just to get you through your first flight or want to block out all the extra noise going on around you, headphones can make flying first time much more enjoyable.

28 Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On

Many travelers try to travel as lightly as possible, but there are times when we just can’t avoid checking a bag into the hold of the plane. In these circumstances, it may be tempting to put everything in the hold and to skip onto the plane light as a feather, carrying nothing at all (other than your phone and wallet, of course). 

However, what if something goes wrong with your checked bag? Perhaps it gets delayed or lost in transit. Or perhaps you miss a connection and you can’t retrieve your bag from the baggage system while you wait for the next flight. You probably have travel insurance to cover any losses and delays, but having the losses covered financially is of limited comfort when you are separated from your personal possessions. 

As evening turns to night, you realize how important basic things like toothpaste and pajamas are. And what about clean underwear and clothes the next day? Sure, you could buy new stuff, but that’s not ideal.

For this reason, it is a good idea to pack some essentials in your carry-on, including a toothbrush and toothpaste, core toiletries, spare underwear, and a change of clothes – basically, the essentials you’ll want if you’re separated from your bag for a day or two. 

by Martha from  May Cause Wanderlust

Helpful Tips for First Time Flying

If you’re going to be flying in a plane for the first time and are trying to prepare for what to expect, this list should cover it! Being prepared and knowing what to expect on your first flight is half the battle. Just follow the advice given here, especially if you’ll be flying alone for the first time and you’ll be just fine!

Enjoy your journey!

Karee Blunt

Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.

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3 thoughts on “27 Best Tips for Flying for the First Time”

I will be traveling soon, September to be precise and this will be my first time boarding a plane, I’m kinda anxious cause I don’t know what to expect, I will be traveling from Nigeria to the Netherlands. I hope I get a smooth trip to my destination, after reading all the tips, I think I can do this

Hi Joy, how exciting that you’ll soon be taking your first flight! I truly hope you’re able to enjoy every minute of it. Try not to stress. You’re going on an adventure of a lifetime, but hopefully just the first of many more to come. 💗

Always eat food at the airport before you actually get onto the plane. There are so many cheap groundside restaurants at which you can order a meal from these days. Or merely take onboard your own free healthy snacks and things to do or stuff to read etc as well.

Consider audiobooks. You can find many different and cheap activity books located in the bookshops quite easily. Once on board the aircraft aim to spend the time flying in the air either drinking some white wine or reading/talking to the other travellers. I like to eat a dish of hot food beforehand.

Bring patience. You will need it for sure on route. Or take a shorter flight instead. Always a good idea. Research the hotels and activities at your destination carefully. Pick one that really appeals to you and also meets your needs. Good luck.

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8 Things to Do Before You Travel by Air

Air travel has become more challenging in recent years, so preparing for a visit to the airport these days is critical. Getting ready will make the entire experience far more enjoyable -- if you've packed for airport security, have the right travel documents, and know what to expect, you'll experience less stress, get to your gate faster, and kick off your trip with a smile. 

Let's walk through our eight greatest tips for airport travel.

Find the Best Airfare

Trying to get the best airfare can be tension-inducing: how do you know if you really got the best airfare deal possible? Have you looked at every one of the nine million sources out there? Is now the best time to buy your ticket? Should you wait or lock down the current price?

It's recommended to start by browsing student airfare websites, comparing the price you get it to regular airfares using an airfare aggregator , such as Skyscanner and then going for it. It's also worth checking if you're entitled to student travel discounts , as that can often save you a serious chunk of change on your flights.

Research is key here, and the more you can dedicate to hunting down inexpensive fares, the better. On top of that, if you can be flexible with your dates and times, you're far more likely to score a cheaper deal. Keep your options open, look around, and you'll be more likely to snag a bargain. 

Get Your Ticket and Itinerary

This part is simple: after you buy your flight, you'll be emailed your booking confirmation and your ticket. This is one of the few travel documents you'll want to make sure you have to hand before heading to the airport.

Some budget airlines, usually in Europe, will require you print this out before you check in (charging a hefty fine if you forget), but this is thankfully rare. For most airlines, you'll be able to show your ticket on your phone or laptop to the check-in staff, if at all. You usually just hand over passport, and that's all that's needed to check my bags. 

If you're a carry-on traveler, you can load your boarding pass on your phone before you arrive at the airport, then head straight through security without having to visit the check-in desks first. This is one of the least stressful ways to travel through an airport, so I highly recommend trying to see if you can minimize your luggage to fit in a smaller bag. 

Make sure your phone or laptop is charged before you head to the airport, just in case you do need to show your ticket to check in. 

Ensure You Have All the Travel Documents You Need

You will always need identification at the airport, both when coming and going. You will almost always need a passport  unless you're flying domestically. You'll also probably need a travel visa (you may be given a blank form on the plane). You will seldom need but may want to carry, travel immunization records . You may want, but *may* not need if you are renting a car at an airport abroad, an international driver's license.

Get the Best Seat Assignment

Getting a good seat on a short flight isn't completely crucial, but can definitely make flying more comfortable. The right seat can make a long flight, like to New Zealand, much better, however. As soon as possible (while buying your ticket if you're likely to forget), choose a seat you want, like an aisle so you can stretch, or a window so you can sleep with your head against a wall.

SeatGuru is a useful website to check before booking, as it provides seat maps and diagrams for every plane you're likely to come up against, rating each seat so you can choose the best available. Did you know, for example, that there are often several seats on a flight that have power sockets for charging? That can make a huge difference to the quality of a long-haul flight if you can charge your laptop while you're up in the air. 

Understand Airport Rules

Airport rules have changed substantially since your parents were in your traveling shoes. Today, you'll have to remove your shoes off to get through airport security ; believe it or not, you used to be able to arrive at the airport with seconds to spare and sprint onto a flight with just a ticket in hand, which might not have even been checked. Before you leave, make sure to read up on airport rules before you go -- like way before you go -- so that you don't receive any nasty surprises when you arrive. 

Pack for Airport Security

If you've read up on airport rules, you know that the U.S., U.K. and Europe have implemented super-strict rules regarding what you may carry on to a plane and through airport security. It won't be painless, but it's possible to pack for airport security if you make sure you carry the right bags and attitude.

Remember: you won't be able to pass through security with liquids or gels in containers larger than 100 ml, and you'll need to remove your electronics to pass them through the scanner separately. Take as small a bag as possible, and putting any liquids or gels into a small plastic bag while you're packing. It's also worth putting all of your electronics into the same compartment of your bag, so they're within easy reach. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, and make sure you're not carrying anything in your pockets. 

How to Not Lose Your Luggage

Want to bring tequila or local salsa home from Mexico? Bought a samurai sword somewhere? You'll have to transport it in a checked bag, which vastly increases the chance that you may lose said bag somewhere along the way. Lost luggage happens, especially now that TSA rules practically dictate having to check bags for some travelers, but you can learn how to avoid losing your bags in transit and what to do if it happens to you.

Thankfully, this occurrence is pretty rare, so it's not really something you need to worry about before you even head to the airport. Just make sure you read up about it so that you know what to do if it does happen.

Make Your Flight As Comfortable As Possible

The actual flying process is often cramped, uncomfortable, and stressful. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to minimize the chances of all three. 

• Load your laptop or tablet up with movies and TV shows before you leave. Flying isn't known for being particularly exciting, so you'll want plenty to keep you entertained. If you're going to be flying on a budget airline, you likely won't have screens on the back of your seat, so this is something to prioritize if you hate feeling bored. 
• Bring a guidebook with you. If you're anything like me, you often turn up at a new destination without having done much research. Use your time on the plane to find out more about the must-see sites and get yourself excited to land. I recommend Lonely Planet guidebooks , as they're full of helpful information, focus mostly on budget travel, and look great stacked up on a bookshelf.
• Buy a travel eye-mask in preparation, especially if you'll be taking an overnight flight. This pair  receives great reviews on Amazon and work exceptionally well at blocking out the light. 
• Pack a small overnight kit for the flight that contains toiletries to help you freshen up. Maybe travel with my toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste. Also, you can bring a facial mist, a small tube of moisturizer, and a hairbrush. You won't believe how much these small additions help wake me up after an overnight flight! 
• If you're going to be crossing several timezones, you absolutely need to purchase some No-Jetlag pills . They're worth the investment if you're prone to suffering from jet-lag in a bad way, as they'll help you adjust faster to your new timezone, so you can make the most of your trip without napping your afternoons away.

This article was edited by Lauren Juliff . 

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First-time Flying: 30 Must-Know Tips for First-time Flyers

Traveling for the first time? These tips for first-time flyers will guide you, from airport tips, how to deal with flying anxiety to all the necessary info .

We have all been first-time flyers at least once in our lives. The first time on a plane can be exciting but at times overwhelming as you don’t know what to expect or how to feel about the entire experience.

Normally as a first-time traveler, you have so many questions about traveling ranging from what to do at the airport , how to check-in at the airport, when to arrive at the airport, what the cabin luggage size should be, the carry on essentials you should pack or even how to book your hotel or air ticket in the first place plus all the necessary airport tips .

All these questions can be daunting if you don’t have where to get the answers from.

With this post, you’ll get all the necessary tips for first-time flyers from carry on luggage rules to how best you can handle flying anxiety.

So without any further ado, let’s look at the best things you should know if it’s your first time flying on a plane.

Related post: Important travel tips for first time travelers

First Time Flying Tips

Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links and I might earn from qualifying sales.

Tips for first-time flyers before your travel date

You’re about to fly to a new country– yay congratulations!!  But before you experience your first time flying on a plane, there are some important things you should do before traveling .

These will determine whether you’ll get to the plane or your dreams will be crushed.

 Obtain a visa

The type of visa to be obtained will depend on the reason for traveling and where you’re traveling to.

The types of visas can range from a tourist visa, business, student, work, to many others.  To see the general visa requirements, check with you’re nearest consular of the country you’re traveling to.

But some of the common visa requirements for most embassies include;

• Proof of a booked air ticket; round trip . If you haven’t booked your flight ticket yet, compare the prices of different flights with Skyscanner to choose the best deal.
• Proof of hotel booking . The country you’re traveling to wants to be sure that you already have where to stay when you reach their country. Not sure where to stay while in an absolutely new country, book your ideal hotel with booking.com or Hotelscombined to enjoy endless deals on discounted hotel rooms.
• A copy of your bank statement . Are you able to take care of yourself while in a foreign country? The embassy will always require a bank statement to gauge whether you can actually survive in their country. The embassy usually states the minimum amount that should be on your bank account for a certain period of time to be eligible to enter their country. (Pease note that this depends on the passport you’re holding and where you’re traveling to).
• Yellow fever Card . Even though a yellow fever card is mandatory in some countries, some of them do not require it. So, again, check with the embassy requirements to see if it’s needed.

Make a research about the country you’re traveling to

The best way to know about the country you’re traveling to is by making extensive research. You don’t want to be shocked on the first day you land in a new country.

It is wise to at least know some of the basics of the country from their culture, dressing code, food to the cost of living.

If you’re a budget traveler, you may want to read this post that shows  how to travel on a budget .

Come up with an itinerary

I know some travelers are all about being spontaneous but having an itinerary can save you a lot of time and money by making you more organized.

Design an itinerary depending on your interests. This can be from visiting  Unesco World Heritage Sites , national parks to big European cities.

Not sure which activities to go for in a certain country,  click on this link  to select activities you want to do based on the area or country you’re traveling to.

Related posts:  Step by step guide to planning a trip Must have free travel apps that work offline

First time flying tips on your flight date

As a first time traveler, you might be asking yourself; how do I prepare for my first flight?

Some of the things to know when flying for the first time on your flight date are endless but we are going to look at the most important ones like when to arrive at the airport, airport check-in process, what to do when you get to the airport and all the general airport tips and hacks.

Packing tips

Don’t carry luggage that weighs more than what the airline allows unless you’re willing to pay for the extra kgs.

The accepted kgs of your luggage are always indicated on your ticket, so be sure to check it to avoid extra fees. You can buy this travel luggage scale to help you weigh your luggage before you go to the airport.

Also, find out what you can bring on a plane and all the hand luggage restrictions.

Every airline has different rules, so check with your airline to see what you can take in your hand luggage and the carry on luggage weight acceptable.

In that same manner, find out what you can take into a certain country and what you can’t. There are a number of packing lists online to help you know what to pack and below are some that you can check out.

• Packing list for Africa
• Packing list for Egypt + what to wear in Egypt
• Things to pack in your carry on
• Packing list for Paris in winter
• Ski trip packing list
• Europe in winter packing list
• Hostel packing list
• Beach packing list
• Packing list for a weekend getaway

What to wear on a plane

Wear comfortable clothes while flying. By comfortable, I don’t mean high heels or jungle boots but rather sweat pants, a comfortable pair of jeans, a t-shirt, or a really comfortable top are ideal.

Some of the comfortable clothes you can wear on a plane include;

• These kinds  of sweatpants
• Leggings – every girl traveler needs a pair of  these cute and comfortable leggings
• Warm and compression socks  – ones you can keep on during the flight if you choose to take off your shoes.
• A  warm fleece  and a  large scarf  – it gets cold in the plane.
• A pair of comfortable shoes –  this pair of sneakers  always does it for me.

Wear easy-to-remove shoes. As you go through the security check at the airport, you’re going to have to take off your shoes a couple of times.

So instead of wearing gladiator shoes will endless shoelaces to untie, opting for flip flops  or  sneakers  is a better choice.

Pro tip:  Make sure you don’t have smelly feet or shoes as you don’t want to be embarrassed at the airport when you take off your shoes. But if you do, worry not,  this fungus treatment  will heal the smelly feet before your big trip.

Forego the belt if you can or wear clothes that don’t require one. While going through security, you’re required to remove your belt every now and then. So, if you don’t want to be inconvenienced, just do away with it.

While still at the point of packing, there are some travel essentials you should not leave behind as you travel. Below are some of them.

Travel Essentials you should never leave home. –  A universal travel adapter : Since different countries use different adapters, I’d advise you to buy one universal travel adapter to cater for all regions. You can  buy one from here  if you don’t have it yet. –  A power Bank : One of the things you should never leave behind while traveling is the Powerbank! Phones have now become a great deal of our lives that we need to use them for so many important things. So take a power bank with you so that you don’t run out of battery.  This power bank   is small, light, and has the capability to charge your phone and other devices multiple times. – Microfibre travel towel  – I always opt for  this microfibre travel towel  because it is super lightweight, easy to wash, and dries easily. –  First Aid kit : Regardless of where you’re traveling to, you’ll need to pack a First Aid kit for emergencies that might arise while traveling. Remember it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Just make sure that the one you pack has all the essentials and that it is small and light enough to fit in any kind of suitcase/ backpack.  This first aid kit   actually fits all the qualities mentioned above plus it is really cheap for what it offers. –  Collapsible water bottle : I always prefer carrying a water bottle while traveling so that I can just refill it when I run out of water. It also helps be a responsible traveler since you won’t have to use tones of disposable plastic bottles which are not great for our environment. Any water bottle can work but I prefer  this collapsible one  as it doesn’t take a lot of space in my bag.

First time flyer Airport tips

•  Reach at the airport 2 hours before your flight time if it’s an international flight and 1 hour before if it’s a domestic one.  You’ve probably heard this countless times but it’s not just the excitement of a first flyer that should make you be at the airport early but also the fear of missing your flight.
• Check your ticket to confirm the terminal where your flight is to be. For big airports, make sure that your taxi driver drops you off at the exact terminal, or else you’re bound to waste a lot of time looking for your terminal or even “get lost” and eventually lose your flight.
• Be sure to have your passport, ticket, and all the necessary documents at all times. You can buy this this travel neck pouch to help you keep your travel documents organised.
•  Use the screens in the airport to locate your check-in point so that you don’t end up at the wrong counter when the check-in time reaches.
• Ask for help from the airport officials. If anything goes wrong or you’re not sure of where to go, don’t panic; politely ask the airport staff for help and they will be at your service.
• Reach the check-in point on time.
• Request for a window seat at check-in. (that is if you want to enjoy the outside views from the plane). While at check-in, you’re given an option to choose the seat you want (if the attendant is generous enough to ask).
• When you’re given your boarding pass, memorize the gate number you’ll use to access the plane.
• Head to your departure gate and keep an ear out for any announcements related to your flight.
• Be sure that the boarding pass is with you at all times as it’s what you’ll use to board the plane. You can check out more airport tips from here .

Related post: How to pack light when traveling

First time flight: Tips for when you board the airplane

• Only sit on the seat number allocated to you on your boarding pass. Seat numbers look like 35A, 1B, & 27C and they are always located on the overhead bin above the plane seats.
• Place your hand luggage in the overhead bin, if it’s a small handbag or purse, place it under the seat in front of you.  Now you can sit and get comfortable.
• Fasten your seat belt and wait for further instructions from the flight attendants.
• You will be given instructions on what to do in case of an emergency but don’t panic, that is the routine for all flights, not that something bad is anticipated to happen.
•  If you are a nervous flyer, I recommend you don’t look outside the window until you get comfortable otherwise you might get more nervous. Regardless of how fun flying on a plane is, I’ve found it a bit scary a couple of times to look outside the window.
• Flying can get boring, more so if the flight is for long hours, so don’t just sit there: you can read a book, watch a movie if the plane you’re in has that provision, write if you’re a writer or a blogger or just sleep to kill the boredom.
• Wake up to watch the sunrise. If you traveled in the wee hours of the night, wake up to see the sunrise. The sunrise on a plane is one of the best sunrises you’ll ever see, so if you’re up for it- don’t miss out on it.
•  Don’t be scared of Airplane Turbulence -“bumping of the airplane during the flight.” Chances are high that you’ll experience airplane turbulence but don’t freak out as this is absolutely normal especially when the weather is not so good. I have to be honest, I freaked out on my first flight because of this. However scary it might seem, you’re actually not in danger- you’re plane is not going down. Just tighten your seat belt if you had removed it before.

Even after following all those guidelines above, there are other unwritten airplane etiquettes that you should be aware of as a first-time flyer.

How do you calm your nerves when flying? 

• Try to fall asleep so that you don’t hear the bumping of the plane.
• Watch an interesting movie that takes away your concentration from the turbulence.
•  Don’t be uncomfortable in silence; the flight attendants are there to serve you, so if you have anything you want to know, just ask and help will be on its way.
• Chew gum or sweets. First-time flights can be exciting but complicated too. My first-time flight experience was rather painful as I had constant ear pain almost half the entire flight. What was the cause?  The difference between the air pressure inside the inner ear and the pressure outside. Normally, the pressure in the inside inner ear is equal to the outside pressure, but due to the rapid change of altitude while flying, there is an imbalance that causes ear pain. How do you make sure it doesn’t happen to you?  Chew gum. Chewing gum helps equalize the air pressure in the inside inner ear and that of the outside pressure.

Lastly, have fun.  Forget the anxiety and pain and enjoy the flight. You’re never gonna have another first-time flight experience, so forego all the distractions and enjoy all that comes with flying.

Related posts: Things not to do when you travel How to stay safe while traveling

First-time flyer: Tips for when you leave the plane.

• The first thing to do when you board off the plane is to locate where your baggage is being dropped. Chances are high that you don’t know where, so use the direction arrows and screens in the airport to locate the cargo drop-off area for your plane. Again if you can’t locate it, ask for help from the airport staff.
• After getting your luggage, locate the customs area to get the necessary stamps to let you enter and stay in their country.
• Get an airport cab if you didn’t arrange for airport pick up and begin your adventures.
• Have fun, loosen up, be smart, stay safe, enjoy your trip to a new country, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures.

Check out this post to discover more  travel tips and hacks  that will help you as a first-time traveler.

Are you planning to take your first trip overseas or it’s your first time flying, I hope these tips were helpful.

Did you have a fun or weird experience during your first time on a plane? I would love to read your experiences and don’t forget to share with others that may need these tips.

More travel tips to help you plan your trip

• Camping tips for beginners
• Hiking tips for beginners
• Backpacking tips for beginners
• Backpacking hacks you need to know

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• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Fear of Flying

Hypnosis for Fear of Flying

Medications for fear of flying.

• Virtual Reality for Fear of Flying
• SOAR Review

What is Turbulence?

• Small Airplane Statistics

How Safe are Airplanes and Air Travel?

• What is Acrophobia?
• What is Agoraphobia?
• What is Claustrophobia?
• What is Mysophobia?

What is Aviophobia?

• Childrens’ Fear of Flying
• TSA Tips for First Time Flyers
• Celebrities Afraid of Flying
• Fear of Flying Apps
• Clear Airport Security Review
• First Time Flying: Tips on Booking, the Airport, and the Flight

Affiliate Disclosure: We may use affiliate links on this page that lead to Amazon or other partners. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Part of the fear of flying is actually a fear of the unknown. If you are flying for the first time—whether for business or pleasure—this includes not knowing what to expect at the airport or while you are in the air.

This step-by-guide spells out everything the nervous first-time flyer needs to know, from booking the flight to navigating the airport to getting situated onto the plane. 

We've packed in our best travel tips for first-time flyers based on the collective experience of our staff, so climb aboard and let's get you ready for the flight!

These flight tips cover most major airlines like American, United, Delta, Southwest, etc. For budget airlines like Frontier or Allegiant, you'll see some variance in items like luggage fees, in-flight accommodations, etc. 

Boarding procedures, safety instructions, and other instructions as they relate to the safety of staff and the passengers remain relatively standard. 

Booking the Flight

The first step in the flying process is purchasing tickets. To book the flight, most people purchase their tickets online through airline or travel sites or their mobile apps. The only thing you have to fear in this step is expensive ticket prices. Otherwise, it is a relatively easy process that you can handle yourself.

Directly through the Airline

In terms of convenience, booking directly through an airline's website is the easiest route. If there are any ticket price changes between the time you book and the time your flight departs, you can usually have that difference refunded with a quick call to customer service.

It's also easier to get better seats and address flight delays, changes, or cancellations when booking direct. Otherwise, you might be referred back to your travel agency, which is another cumbersome step to have to take when you're having problems with your flight. 

It's a little extra work on the front end, but for first-time flyers, this gives you added flexibility just in case something were to go wrong. 

PRO-TIP: Add your airline's phone number to your contacts and jot down important info like flight numbers, confirmation numbers, etc. in the notes app on your phone.

Just in case something does go wrong, having all of this info readily available will help solve problems faster.

Through a Travel Agency

There are some instances where booking through a travel agency is the better option. Specifically, if you are planning an international trip or one that is more complex than a week-long vacation in the United States, a travel agency can be a big help. 

OTA's, that's Online Travel Agencies, are sites like Orbitz, Trivago, Kayak, Booking.com, Expedia, and others. 

What's the difference between them? 

Spoiler alert - not much. In fact, the majority of these sites are all owned by four or so big players. 

Why use an online travel agency? 

• One-Stop-Shop, flights, hotels, car rentals, and more
• Good first-time user offers
• Helps to save time and money
• Quick and easy comparison of different airfares and schedules
• See reviews and recommendations from people who have taken the same trip before.

For the most part, they wrap up all of your trip into a single package and help manage the booking and getting you to your destination. All you have to do is pay and print out the trip details. 

If problems do arise on your trip, a customer service representative is only a phone call away to get you the help you need. 

Direct Flights

Whenever possible, get a direct flight. Layovers only add the potential for more problems. You want the journey to be as simple as possible, and when you only have to board and exit a single plane, you lessen the chance for delays, cancellations, and missed connecting flights. 

Layovers and Connecting Flights

If you can't find a direct flight, it's not the end of the world. A connecting flight is where you will travel to one airport to join a different flight that will take you to your end destination. Sometimes you may have multiple stops, but for most domestic flights, it's common only to have one.

A layover is a time in between these connecting flights. For example, if you fly from New York to Los Angeles, you may only fly halfway to Chicago. There you will exit the plane and wait in another concourse until your next flight is ready to depart for Los Angeles.

This can be a quick turnaround or several hours long; it all depends on the flight schedule.

If you must choose a layover, pick one that is at least 2 hours between the time the plane is scheduled to land and when the next one is scheduled to depart. Any less time may result in a missed connecting flight. 

What often happens is the plane's wheels will touch down at, say, 10:41 AM. However, the plane won't make it to the concourse for 'x' reason (jetway unavailable, lots of traffic, etc.) until 11:30 PM. By the time you're off the plane, it's almost 12:00 PM, and you're rushing to get to your next flight.  

When booking your flight, remember:

• Book a direct flight whenever possible, even if it costs a little more.
• Give yourself at least a 2-hour layover between connecting flights.
• Add more time to your layover if you want to eat, freshen up in the bathroom, etc. 
• Red-eye flights are often cheaper but at the expense of traveling at night.

RED-EYE FLIGHTS: You might see a "+1" on some flights, or see flights that fly overnight. These are referred to as "red-eye flights." Any flight that travels through the night is a red-eye.

The downside is obvious; however, these flights are typically cheaper if you can deal with not sleeping well.

Types of Tickets

You may see different ticket types available for purchase. The main differences you're likely to see include the ability to make flight adjustments after purchase, refundability, carry on allowance, seat selection, or boarding group. 

Be sure to carefully read the fine print of the ticket you are purchasing. Most airlines will be somewhat flexible on some of these policies. For example, if you need to change your flight weeks or months for departure, most customer service agents are happy to make that adjustment. 

Always, always, pack the night before! Get your laundry done a day or two before and make sure all of your electronics are fully charged. You will also want to pack some specific documents and ensure you have the right luggage. 

Important Documents

Be sure to have a valid form of ID, such as your driver's license and your passport if you are traveling internationally. The TSA has an article outlining other forms of acceptable IDs, if you are not using something typical, like your driver's license, military ID, or passport. 

Starting on October 1, 2020, all travelers in the US, over 18 yrs old, will be required to have a REAL ID-Compliant Driver's License or another form of acceptable identification.

More on the REAL ID can be found on the TSA website . 

Even if you plan on using a digital boarding pass on your phone, it may be helpful to print it from your home computer or at the airline's kiosk. 

An example of a boarding pass for an American Airlines flight printed at the airport.

Carry On Luggage

Carry on luggage refers to the larger suitcase or bag that you can bring on the plane with you and store in the overhead compartment.

There are restrictions to the size of the carry on you can bring; however, most bags from known brands like Chester, TravelPro, Delsey, and others are compliant for most domestic flights. 

International flights have slightly stricter standards, and are the requirements are only slightly smaller than domestic flights. Be sure to check the website of your airline for specific requirements.

If your bag is larger than specified measurements, you will be required to 'check' your luggage, which incurs around a $25-$30 fee.

BE AWARE: Don't go by your luggage manufacturer's advertised dimensions. Some manufacturers will not include the wheels or handles in their product listings. Airlines do take these into account.

If your luggage is questionable, you may be required to place it in this module to check its measurements.

Checked Luggage

If you are traveling for longer than 4-5 days, you'll likely pack a larger suitcase, which you will be required to check-in prior to going through security. These bags have weight limit restrictions, but as long as you're only packing usual items like clothes, shoes, etc. you won't even come near that limit.

There is a $25 to $30 fee for each way when checking your luggage. After checking your luggage, you will not have any access to your bag until you pick it up from the baggage claim at your destination.

TSA has specific restrictions on what you can and can't pack in both your checked and carry-on luggage. Each airline may have additional restrictions on what you can and can't pack. 

Personal Items

In addition to your carry-on, you are also allowed to bring on a 'personal item' onto the plane. This has to fit under the seat in front of you and is commonly a purse, small/medium backpack, or diaper bag of sorts.

These bags are subject to the same restrictions as your carry on and also have varying size requirements. It is best to pack items that will be accessed during the flight like snacks, headphones, laptops, power banks, etc. 

To summarize, remember:

• Make sure your ID is compliant and up to date
• Your carry on and personal item meet your airline's requirements
• If you are checking luggage, it also meets your airline's checked luggage regulations

Checking In

Before the flight, you are also required to "check-in," which just acknowledges you are still planning to make the trip. If you booked online, you could follow the instructions you get from the airline — you'll get an email or text prompting you to sign in. 

This is usually about 24 hours before your flight. If you didn't do so during the booking process, you can usually choose a seat during the check-in process, or pay for your checked bags (if applicable). 

Almost all major airlines allow you to perform all of these actions from the app. 

As part of this process, you receive a boarding pass—a document that proves that you have purchased a ticket and contains information about you and your trip. 

After checking in, your boarding pass is available through the app and can be added to your digital wallet. 

You can also print your boarding pass from a desktop computer or at the kiosk at the airport. It's highly recommended to do this just in case your phone dies or has technical issues at the gate. 

Arriving at the Airport

How early should i arrive for my flight.

Most airlines and travel experts recommend arriving two ahead of the scheduled departure time for any domestic flight. For International flights, plan for around 3-4 hours ahead of time.

If you are traveling during the peak holiday season, aka Thanksgiving and Christmas, it's advised to add an extra hour or two onto those times because of the influx of families, children, etc. 

Remember, you need to account for factors you can't control like traffic, security checkpoint wait times, etc.

PRO-TIP: Signing up for TSA Pre-check, Global Entry (for international travelers), or CLEAR, can save you TONS of time and hassle going through security.

It's basically like getting to go through the VIP line, which is always shorter.

If you are not being dropped off, you will need to pay for parking. You should check the rates and available lots at the airport you'll be departing from. Larger airports usually have 2, sometimes 3, different lots for travelers. 

One lot is designated as "daily," for travelers who will not be leaving their car overnight. This gives them a better rate than the "long-term lot," which is specifically for flyers who will be gone for more than a day. 

If you are gone for multiple days, park in the long-term lot, or else you'll be paying a lot more money to stay in the daily lot. 

When you pull into the lot, you'll likely pass through a gate where you'll receive a ticket about the size of a business card. Put this in your glove box as you'll need it to leave the lot. After coming back from your trip, you'll put the card into the machine on the way out and pay the parking fees. 

Lastly, for some major international airports, you may have to ride a shuttle from the parking lot or garage to the gates. It's recommended to tip these shuttle drivers a few dollars as they will typically help you with your luggage. 

PRO-TIP: If using an iPhone, drop a pin on the location for where you've parked your car and save it. Otherwise, make a note on your phone on the section, lot number, etc. of where your car is parked. This will make it much easier to find once you get back.

It's recommended to always print out a paper copy of your boarding pass and tickets, just in case the digital copies on your phone become inaccessible. 

You can print these out on your computer at home, or you can retrieve them from the kiosk at the airport. If the kiosks are not available or you are having trouble with them, you can talk with one of the airline's representatives to help you. 

You will receive all of the tickets and boarding passes for the first part of your flight, so be sure to place them somewhere where they can't be lost. The front pocket of a backpack, wallet, or purse is a good idea. You will want to be able to access them quickly, but keep them secure. 

Walk up to a kiosk or customer service rep to check into your flight.

Checking Luggage

If you plan on checking your luggage in, you can do that from the kiosk or by speaking with a representative. 

If done from the kiosk, it will print out a long sticker that you will wrap around the smaller, non-extending handle on your suitcase. You will remove the backing to expose the adhesive, wrap it around, and then connect the two adhesive sides together to form a loop. 

You'll then need to wait in line until you reach the check-in desk to hand off your bag. Sometimes the representative will be printing out the sticker and putting it on your bag. 

After you have landed at your destination, remove the sticker and throw it away before heading home. Having multiple labels on your luggage only increases its chances of getting lost. 

Getting Through Security

Depending on the airport, there may be a central security checkpoint for all gates—like in the Atlanta airport—or there may be separate checkpoints for each set of gates, like in the Tampa airport. 

Airport personnel can help you find the checkpoint, and there is generally ample signage to point you in the right direction. Regardless, all passengers must go through security, including children. 

When you reach the security area, you'll generally wait in line anywhere from no time to an hour or more. Once you get to an agent, they will check your boarding pass and ID to ensure they match. 

You will need a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, and as already mentioned above, starting October 1, 2020, it will need to be REAL-ID compliant. If your ID is compliant, you will not be allowed to pass security or board the plane.

If you become a frequent flyer, we recommend that you check out our CLEAR airport security review as a way to gain access and move through life more quickly and easily.

Be Aware: While waiting in line, you may be subject to a random screening. For example, while the author of this article was in Washington DC, his hands were dusted for any remnants of bomb-making materials. Unless you have recently been to a shooting range, near any gun powder, or fireworks, you will not have anything to worry about.

The Screening Process

Next, you will place your personal belongings and any carry-on bag (the one(s) you will keep with you on the plane) in bins that roll along a conveyor belt and under the x-ray machine.

This is the what security screening looks like after you have walked through and gathered your items.

BE AWARE: While waiting in line, you may be subject to a random screening. For example, while the author of this article was in Washington DC, his hands were dusted for any remnants of bomb-making materials. Unless you have recently been to a shooting range, near any gun powder, or fireworks, you will not have anything to worry about.

BE AWARE: The body scanner is a very sensitive machine. Something so much as your boarding pass or a stick of gum can show up on the screen.

Keep in mind this machine will not show any images of what is underneath your clothing - only if a foreign object appears on the outline of your body.

Any electronic larger than a cell phone needs to be removed from your bag(s) and placed in one of the containers. This includes laptops, tablets, and cameras. Be sure to have these items easily accessible and not buried deep within your bags. 

After that, you collect your belongings from the bin, put your shoes back on, and head to your gate area.

A Better Solution: CLEAR

If you would like to avoid most of the security screening, consider signing up for CLEAR and check out the review here. With CLEAR, you will only need to walk through a metal detector; all your belongings can stay in their respective bags — no removal of shoes, shorter lines, and less hassle.

Prohibited Items & the 3-1-1 Rule

Airports have strict requirements regarding what you are allowed to have on your person and in your carry-on bag. To find out what personal items you can bring with you on the flight, consult the resources below.

For a guide on permitted and prohibited items, visit this Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website page .

For information about the "3-1-1″ rule pertaining to liquids, visit this TSA webpage .

Finding the Concourse Gate

The "gate" is the area where you wait until time to board a plane. Each concourse in an airport houses several gates. A concourse resembles the wing of the mall in that it usually contains restaurants and gift shops. Any food or merchandise you buy in the concourse area is fine to take on the plane with you.

A terminal is the large main building of a section of the airport. The terminal houses several concourses. Imagine it like a large tree. A terminal is the trunk of the tree with large branches coming off the trunk, these are your terminals. Finally, there are small branches off of those larger ones called gates, where the planes are docked for the next flight.

It goes Terminal > Concourse > Gate, so in the picture the gate is L8. This is gate 8, in concourse L. According to this map of Chicago O'Hare Airport, concourse L is in Terminal 3. Large international airports have multiple terminals, but generally will not reuse concourse letters. 

When at the gate, you are free to sit wherever you please. When it is time to board, passengers line up and present their boarding documents to a gate agent. 

If you are using a digital boarding pass, it is scanned straight from your phone. Just ensure your brightness is high enough and have your paper one ready in case your phone has trouble scanning. 

You will then walk through a "jetway," or "jet bridge" which connects the gate to the outside of the plane.

A jet bridge waiting for an airplane to dock on a sunny day.

An airplane that has been docked to the jetway on a rainy day.

Valet Checking your Carry On

For smaller aircraft, typically ones flying in or out of small regional airports, you may be required to 'valet check' your luggage. Don't worry, this doesn't cost you any money, and is a common practice. 

Usually, an attendant will walk around the gate area, passing out small red or yellow tags that will attach to the top of your luggage. This will vary from airline to airline, but generally, if it has wheels, you will valet it.

After scanning your boarding pass, you'll leave your carry-on at the top of the jetway where it will be stored in the belly of the aircraft for that flight only. You will still take your personal item with you to your seat. 

After the flight lands, your bag will be waiting for you at the top of the jetway. It may take a few minutes for the crew to unload all the bags and make them accessible.

Boarding the Plane

Passengers board the plane according to the group number on their ticket. Different airlines have different ways of doing this, but for most first time flyers, you will be the last to the second-to-last group.

Once you make your way onto the plane, read the seating labels found around eye level just below where the handle is for the overhead storage compartments. You'll see row numbers, often with letters indicating the seat number. 

If you are having trouble getting your bag into the storage area or can't find your seat, flight attendants will be standing by to assist.

There will also be an icon indicating the window or aisle for you to determine which seat is yours. 

Planes have markers at about eye level so passengers know which letter on their boarding pass refers to which seat.

After locating your seat, place your luggage in the overhead compartment, ideally wheels first. You can take your backpack, purse, or whatever your personal item is with you to your seat. It will need to be placed under the seat in front of you for takeoff and landing. 

For those sitting in the front-most seat of economy you will not have a seat in front of you. Instead, look for the overhead compartments that are reserved for your personal items. 

Pre-Flight Procedures

Now for the fun part, the flying itself. For some people, this is where the fear and anxiety begins setting in. But if you know what to expect when you fly, you will hopefully be able to better manage the fear before you are in the air.

Passengers board the plane, find their seats, and store any carry on baggage in the storage bins above the seats. 

The crew relays safety instructions (or they are presented in a video on screens behind each seat), and the Captain gives a brief message to passengers along the lines of the weather in your destination city, any expected weather or turbulence issues expected and how long the flight is expected to take.

A safety card is in the seat in front of you to let you know what you need to do in the rare event of an emergency.

People that are already experiencing fear and anxiety when they fly tend to fear the worst during safety instructions. This is something you can learn to overcome by educating yourself on flight safety statistics and recognizing that the fear is irrational.

Accidents are very rare, so safety measures are seldom needed; the crew addresses them in the unlikely event they are necessary. If an emergency does occur, the crew is well-trained and equipped to assist passengers.

The Takeoff

The Captain then "drives" the aircraft on the ground to get in position for takeoff. Before takeoff, passengers must fasten their seat belts and remain seated until instructed otherwise. 

When the pilot gets the clearance to take off, the plane will begin accelerating along the runway before becoming airborne. This is the part some passengers dislike because the plane is leaving the ground, and the body is angled upward. 

Others have a feeling of exhilaration as the plane accelerates into the air. The acceleration and takeoff are likely to be a little bumpy as you move across the runway.

During the Flight

When the plane reaches a certain altitude, passengers are free to move about in the cabin and use the restrooms. Many planes have a video screen on the back of each seat with on-demand music, TV programs, and movies for entertainment. Wi-Fi is usually available as well, so you can take care of personal or business-related tasks.

The crew will also serve snacks and drinks. Depending on your ticket, food and drinks may be complimentary. 

If you're in the coach section (typically the cheapest) section, you'll generally get a snack like pretzels or cookies and sodas or water. You can still buy additional food items or alcoholic beverages if you prefer.

If there is turbulence and moving around is not safe while in the air, the crew will instruct passengers to remain seated until notified otherwise. Turbulence is nothing to fear—it is caused by fluctuating air pressures and is a normal experience of flying.

The Landing

Likewise, when you are close to landing, the crew will require that passengers be seated and buckled in. 

Some people fear this part of the journey because the plane will often slightly roll (turn) and change altitudes in preparation to descend and land on the airport runway assigned to the flight. 

When the plane lands, the Captain drives to the gate, where passengers use the jetway to exit the aircraft and enter the destination airport.

Post Flight Procedures

Exiting the plane.

Similar to how you boarded. Exiting the plane is essentially the same but in reverse. 

After the plane has exited the runway, there may be a wait until a gate is available for the plane to dock. This is dependent on whether or not flights are running behind and the availability of a jetway. 

You should remain buckled until the crew gives you the okay to unbuckle. If sitting near the rear of the plane, you will be better off staying in your seat as it will take a while for everyone ahead of you to get off the plane. 

Be courteous to other passengers and help when needed. 

Baggage Claim

If you checked any luggage, you would then head to the baggage claim area. Airport signage will direct you to baggage claim, or you can get assistance from airport staff. Shortly after landing, luggage is placed on a carousel for passengers to pick up.

Final Thoughts

Once you have experienced the air travel process for the first time, you will at least have addressed the fear of the unknown, and hopefully will enjoy any future flights. Good luck, and if you are interested in reading some additional tips for first-time flyers, click here .

First Time Flying | Resources

• Airport Terminals
• Fear of Flying Statistics

Written by Fly Fright Staff , Staff Writer

Fact Checked

Our team of writers and editors rigorously evaluate each article to ensure the information is accurate and exclusively cites reputable sources.

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Airline travel has become an essential part of modern life, connecting people across the globe and making the world more accessible than ever before. If you're new to flying or simply want to brush up on your knowledge, this beginner's guide to airline travel will provide you with everything you need to navigate the skies with confidence.

First things first

The first step in airline travel is booking your flight . Start by choosing your destination and preferred travel dates. Visit airline websites or online travel agencies to compare prices and flight options. Consider factors such as layovers, airline reputation, and baggage allowances when making your decision. Once you've selected your flight, follow the booking process, provide passenger information, and complete the payment to secure your ticket.

Next, consider what and how you’ll be packing for the trip. Check the airline's baggage policy to determine the allowed size, weight, and number of bags. Make a checklist of essential items, including travel documents (passport, ID, and visa), tickets, electronic devices, chargers, medications, and necessary clothing.

Remember to pack liquids in accordance with aviation security rules. Oftentimes, you’ll need to follow the 100ml rule and place liquids, aerosols, and gels in a clear, resealable bag.

Want answers to more key questions in aviation? Check out the rest of our guides here .

All packed? You’re ready to go!

Before your flight, it's essential to check-in. Most airlines offer online check-in, allowing you to select seats, print boarding passes, and avoid long queues at the airport. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure.

If you prefer doing this in person, head to the check-in counter at the airport. Note that some low-cost airlines might charge you for an in-person check-in, so definitely log in before your flight to confirm. Whether you check in online or at the airport, if you have luggage to check , arrive at the airport (wear comfortable clothes for the flight!) with sufficient time to complete the check-in process and drop off your bags.

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Airport security procedures are designed to ensure the safety of all passengers. Familiarize yourself with the regulations to make the security screening process smoother. Prepare by removing any metal objects, electronics, and liquids from your carry-on bag for separate screening. Nearly all airports need you to pass through a metal detector and/or a full body scan to check for any dangerous substances. Ensure you don't have anything in your pockets and remove any heavy layers to avoid further scrutiny.

Some airports may require you to remove your shoes too. Simply follow the instructions of security personnel, place your belongings in the provided bins, proceed through the metal detectors or body scanners, and you’re good to go.

Once through security, keep an eye on the information screens for your flight's gate number and boarding time. Airlines usually begin boarding with specific zones or groups, so pay attention to the announcements and follow the instructions. Have your boarding pass and identification ready for inspection, and proceed to the aircraft when your zone is called.

Taking to the skies

Once onboard, find your assigned seat and stow your carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Fasten your seatbelt and listen to the safety instructions provided by the flight attendants.

During the flight, don’t forget to make use of the provided amenities, such as the in-flight entertainment system (or bring along a flight-friendly game ), reading materials, or refreshments. Follow any specific guidelines given by the cabin crew – and remember to look out the window to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the world!

When the aircraft has touched down, remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign is turned off. Then, gather your personal belongings and proceed through the arrival procedures at the airport.

Lastly, locate your assigned carousel, and wait for your luggage to arrive (handy tip: use luggage tags so you can easily identify your bags). If any items are missing or damaged, be sure to inform staff at the baggage service counter before leaving the airport.

Discover more aviation news about the passenger experience here.

Now you're all equipped with the knowledge needed for a successful and memorable journey. Embrace the adventure, enjoy the experience, and most importantly, have fun!

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Advice for First Time Travelers Part 1.

Even if you’re a frequent flyer, the screening process can be overwhelming at times. For the uninitiated first-time traveler, it can be even worse.  Follow along in our short blog series where we will share tips for first time flyers, frequent travelers and people who just want to get through security more efficiently!  

Suitcases and Carry-Ons.

Let’s start with the basics:  personal/carry-on bags and checked bags. Carry-on bags (or personal baggage, depending on the airlines) are any bags you are planning to carry with you on the plane, while checked bags are those destined for the cargo hold of the plane. When it comes to the size and weight of your bags, policies vary from airline to airline. The airlines also make the rules on which bags count towards your carry-on allowance and which will incur checked baggage fees. So before your scheduled flight, make sure to check your airline’s policy and guidelines page.

Oh, and if you think TSA officers only screen your carry-on bags then you are mistaken. TSA officers screen all bags – including checked bags – before your flight takes off. So be sure to pack smart and check your bags thoroughly for prohibited items before you arrive to the airport. For the best resource to understand what you can and cannot bring in your carry-on or checked bag, check out the What Can I Bring ? tool on the TSA website.

Pack like a Pro.

When packing your carry-on bag, organization is key! Keep your large electronics – like computers, tablets and video game consoles –  as well as your travel liquids bag at the top of your bag for easy accessibility. This will make your screening experience smoother when you’re asked to pull these items out of your bags and place them in bin for screening. Have additional questions on how to best prepare your carry-on bags for security screening? Check out this video to learn more.

TSA’s Liquids Rule.

How familiar are you with TSA’s liquids rule? And why do we have specific guidelines for liquids? Liquid explosives still pose a threat to aviation, so allowing passengers to carry their liquids, gels and aerosols in smaller containers lessens that risk. So what qualifies a liquid? Here’s an easy way to think about that: if you can spread it, smear it, pump it or spray it, it is considered a liquid. Watch this video to learn more on how to best travel with your liquids.

Heading to the Airport

Don’t forget your mask and give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the airport early. Running to your gate in a face mask doesn’t sound like much fun to us! We also recommend wearing easily removable shoes (and socks) to make the screening process a little bit smoother for you! Again, don’t forget your mask!

A Final Travel Tip (for now)

Download the MyTSA app ! The MyTSA app provides passengers with 24/7 access to the most frequently requested airport security information on any mobile device. Check delay information and current weather conditions at your favorite airports nationwide. You can also use the “What Can I Bring?” tool right in the app to know if an item can be packed in your carry-on or checked bag before arriving at the airport.

About This Blog

The purpose of this blog is to share the latest news and helpful information with the public. If you have questions about TSA or the information presented here, please contact our AskTSA customer care team on Twitter  or Facebook .

TSA is committed to protecting privacy and securing personal information. For details, see our website Privacy Policy .

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What Flying First Class Is Really Like and How to Decide If It's Worth It

Here's what to expect if you're flying in first class on Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Every time you board a plane, there they are: the flight's first-class passengers. While you were at the gate waiting for your group number to be called (and likely stressing about nabbing space in the overhead compartment ), they were getting settled into their extra-large seats with dedicated carry-on space. And as you sulk past them toward your narrow seat in the back of the plane, they snuggle in under a complimentary blanket and sip Champagne .

That, you tell yourself, is what flying should be like.

But is the extra space and next-level service worth the pricey ticket? To explore that very question, we've pulled together what it looks like to fly in first class on various U.S. airlines, how flying in first class is different from traveling in business class and economy, and how the benefits change — in some cases, dramatically — when you book first class on a long-haul international flight versus a domestic one.

Benefits of Flying in First Class

First-class passengers enjoy several benefits before they even board the plane. For starters, they don't have to wait in the long economy check-in line, they get free checked bags, and they have an easier time going through security , as that first-class ticket may mean access to a different TSA line.

From there, they get to board the plane first, so they have time to stow their bags and settle in without a line of passengers crowding around. And, of course, on board, they often get extra legroom, a wider seat with a more exaggerated recline, a blanket and a pillow, a plush amenity kit, beverage service that includes alcohol, and better food (and more of it).

Flying First Class on Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has six onboard experiences: Delta One, Premium Select, First Class, Comfort+, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy, but some offerings and cabins are only available on certain routes. For example, the ultra-luxe Delta One cabin — which has lie-flat seats, lip balm and hand cream by Grown Alchemist, and sleep amenities like an oversized duvet and a comfy down-alternative pillow — is only available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights.

Pre-flight Service: Those flying in first class with Delta get Sky Priority service from the moment they enter the airport. That translates to accelerated check-in, security, and baggage handling, plus early boarding.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags.

Seating: Up to eight inches of extra legroom and up to 5.4 inches of seat recline.

In-flight Service: A dedicated first-class cabin flight attendant and complimentary drinks and a snack. Those flying more than 900 miles can expect to receive a first-class meal box; passengers traveling between 900 and 2,399 miles receive a chef-curated meal and snacks, while flights over 2,300 miles include a full meal service with snacks and several entrées to choose from.

Flying First Class on United Airlines

On flights within the U.S., United Airlines' highest level of service is United First, but on flights from the U.S. to Latin America or the Caribbean (and some U.S. transcontinental flights) United Business is the first-class equivalent. Meanwhile, United Polaris provides the airline's ultimate flight experience — think lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and slippers.

Pre-flight Service: With United, first-class passengers can use the quicker, shorter Premier Access lines to speed up the check-in, security, and boarding processes.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags with priority baggage handling, meaning your suitcases get special attention and will be among the first to arrive at baggage claim.

Seating: In United's first-class cabin, expect the most legroom possible, and with United Polaris, get ready for fully reclining seats that convert to a flat six-foot, six-inch bed.

In-flight Service: Beer, wine, and spirits (including a rotating craft beer selection) and access to DirecTV and United Private Screening, for all the latest movies and TV shows.

Flying First Class on American Airlines

Like on United, on American Airlines, the first-class designation marks the highest level on flights around the U.S., while business class is the highest level on shorter international routes, including Bermuda and Canada. On some long-distance flights (both domestic and international), passengers have the option to book seats in Flagship First or Flagship Business classes, which make up the brand's most luxurious product — think lie-flat seats, access to the Flagship Lounge, and a sleep amenity set from Casper.

Pre-flight Service: Those booking a first-class ticket with American will be granted priority access through the airport's most congested areas, from check-in to security to the gate.

Baggage: Up to three free checked bags, depending on the flight.

Seating: In American's first-class cabins, seats are wider and recline farther, although the exact increase varies by flight and aircraft layout.

In-flight Service: In first class, passengers will enjoy menus curated by premier chefs — such as chef and registered dietitian nutritionist Ellie Krieger, who focuses on healthy dishes, and Sam Choy, creator of Pacific Rim cuisine — thanks to the airline's partnership with the James Beard Foundation, along with extra snacks and a beverage service that includes alcohol.

Flying First Class Versus Business Class

On some airlines, like United and American, first-class fares offer the highest level of service on flights across the U.S., while business class provides the highest level of service on shorter-distance international routes (such as those heading to the Caribbean). If a plane has both cabin types, flying business class is typically a step down from flying first class.

Keep in mind that some airlines have a premium economy category (think Delta's Delta Comfort+), which tends to fall between economy and business or first class. A premium economy booking may have extra legroom, better meal service, and an increased bag allowance, but the perks can vary.

Flying First Class on Long-haul International Flights

Want the ultimate first-class experience? Save up and book a first-class ticket on a long-haul international flight (or in some cases, a U.S. transcontinental flight). It's on these long routes that you'll find that dreamy elevated flight experience.

While almost all airlines offer lie-flat seats and thoughtful sleep amenities, some of them truly excel at taking things to the next level. First class on Emirates' A380 and Boeing 777 planes, for instance, means flying in a fully enclosed suite with a full bed, an onboard shower, and a first-class bar and lounge. Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways , Etihad Airways, and Air France are all known for their respective first-class service and amenities.

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The new C-40s would supplement executive airlift missions for “Top Five” users — the vice president, first spouse, defense secretary, Joint Chiefs chairman and secretary of state — who rely on a fleet of C-32 aircraft that can only support 59 percent of Top Five travel requests, the Air Force told Breaking Defense.

A 932nd Airlift Wing Boeing C-40C sits on the flightline, during a foggy morning at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, April 6, 2019. (U.S. Air Force photo by Christopher Parr)

WASHINGTON — Lawmakers have rejected a request by the Air Force to acquire a second C-40 aircraft , Breaking Defense recently learned , adding another setback in the service’s bid to expand the airlift fleet that transports top US officials.

Alongside a call for one C-40 aircraft in the fiscal 2025 budget submission , the Air Force additionally asked Congress to rearrange FY24 funds to procure a second aircraft, the service confirmed to Breaking Defense. Known as a reprogramming, the request was denied by Congress in July. Lawmakers in several draft defense bills similarly zeroed out or drastically reduced about $329 million in funds for the C-40 included in the FY25 request. 

The reprogramming request to fund the other C-40 sought a roughly identical amount as the FY25 budget submission, according to a source with knowledge of the process. 

The Air Force is pursuing the new C-40s to supplement a fleet of four C-32s , which are primarily tasked with serving “Top Five” users: the vice president, first spouse, secretary of defense, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and secretary of state. The Air Force spokesperson told Breaking Defense that the C-32 fleet’s mission capable rates meet the service’s “standards,” but that the fleet “is unable to fully support all Top Five customers” — mainly because there simply aren’t enough planes.

“The current C-32A fleet can only support 59 percent of the To p Five user requests, which is the primary contributing factor for the Air Force to request additional aircraft,” the spokesperson said. The requirement for new jets was generated by a review between the Air Force, Office of the Secretary of Defense and the White House, they added.

Air Force VIP airlift is chiefly carried out by the C-32 and C-40. The C-32 is a militarized version of Boeing’s 757 jetliner, whereas the smaller C-40 is based on the company’s 737 Next Generation. The secretary of defense also frequently travels on the Air Force’s E-4B “Doomsday Plane,” while the US president typically flies aboard the VC-25A, known as Air Force One when the commander-in-chief is onboard. Those two aircraft are based on Boeing’s 747 jumbo jet.

RELATED: First flight of new Air Force One jet slips to 2026, Air Force says

Although the C-32 fleet is largely reserved for Top Five travel, the C-40 — which transports a broader set of key officials — can also fulfill C-32 taskings. But demand on both aircraft fleets remains high, and this year the C-40 was the source of embarrassing headlines for the administration when mechanical issues reportedly stranded Secretary of State Antony Blinken twice after meetings in Davos and Paris . 

Asked about contingency plans for backup aircraft, the Air Force spokesperson said that the “importance” of supporting Top Five travel informs “standing DoD/AF policy to backup home station departures to help ensure mission success in case of a last-minute aircraft maintenance issue.”

Two variants of the C-40, known as the C-40B and C-40C, comprise the current fleet of 11 aircraft. The new jet dubbed the C-40D would be similar to the B variant that includes secure communications for senior leaders, which is also featured on the C-32. The Air Force spokesperson said the C-40Ds would also be configured to hold up to 40 passengers in addition to VIPs, increasing passenger capacity over the C-40B. 

The C-32’s baseline airframe, the 757, is no longer in production, leaving the 737 as the only US-made, commercially available narrowbody jetliner that can expand executive airlift capacity. 

The Air Force first revealed plans to purchase the newer C-40 in the service’s FY25 budget request . Some key congressional committees have indicated they would reject most or all funding for the endeavor, though Senate appropriators left the request intact in their markup of the FY25 spending bill. Lawmakers this week approved stopgap funding that will run into December, meaning the FY25 budget likely won’t be finalized until the end of the calendar year — if not longer. 

Asked about an acquisition strategy for the aircraft, the Air Force spokesperson said the service expects to share more details in FY25. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. 

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I’m a flight attendant — passengers are annoying but i absolutely hate ‘gate lice’.

Add gate-crashers to the long list of passengers that cabin crew can’t stand.

Flight attendants are speaking out against “gate lice” who crowd the boarding area at the airport, saying the self-centered travelers believe they’re better and more important than their fellow fliers.

“I absolutely hate gate lice,” declared Brian Hart Hoffman who was a flight attendant for eight years with US Airways and Alaska Airlines, per Thrillist.

Allegedly coined in a 2005 FlyerTalk discussion thread, “gate lice” refers to passengers who hover around the gate like insects before it’s their turn to board so they can ostensibly secure overhead storage space.

The disparaging label has only picked up steam two decades later, especially in crewmember circles. Hoffman says that bum-rushing the gate is not only super unnecessary but it can also delay takeoff by preventing passengers from boarding.

In some instances, these campers can even obstruct flyers departing an aircraft that just arrived.

“Some of the dedicated ‘lice’ are in place and blocking things while the airplane is being deplaned from the inbound flight,” griped the ex-crewmember, who accused them of believing they’re more “important than anyone else flying.”

Meanwhile, Rich Henderson, air host and mind behind the  Two Guys on a Plane blog, said that gate lice sometimes hinder crewmembers and cleaners who are trying to board, which can also result in delays. Loomers can also make it difficult for people in wheelchairs or those who require other forms of assistance to get by.

Air employees aren’t the only ones taking issue with the growing gate lice infestation.

“The last couple times I’ve flown it kind of made my blood boil watching this mass of people crowd around the gate and just stand there not moving,” complained one person in one of the many gate louse-bashing forums circulating Reddit. “It is so simple and the GAs announce it every time — ‘please remain seated until your boarding group is announced.’ Yet without fail the gate lice always congregate.”

In the aforementioned FlyerTalk forum, an alleged United Airlines’ Premier 1K status called gate lousing one of their biggest “pet peeves.”

“Get the hell out of the way so I can board, thanks,” they groused.

Some fly-witnesses even accused flight attendants of allowing gate lice to cut the line. “In four of my last five flights, I’ve seen people with Group 3 or higher push their way in front of me, hand their ticket to the GA, GA tells them they’re boarding Group 1 and proceed to tear their ticket and let them board,” claimed one forum user.

However, some defended gate-crashing on the grounds that there is not enough storage space on an airplane for everyone, therefore necessitating the practice.

“My son, who was on a 40K award trip from LAS to ORD, was among the last to board since he was near the front,” said one sympathizer in the flight forum. “Since the overhead bins were full, he was told to had to check his bag. The flight was late anyway, and the extra time to go to wait for his bag kept him from getting to his apartment until after midnight. He had to be at work at 6 a.m.”

They added: “In the future, shouldn’t we board early to be sure our carry-on makes it?”

While ex-crewmember Hoffman acknowledges that baggage policies affect passenger behavior, he claims that flyers can mitigate gate lousing by “thinking about other people.”

Kristie Tse, a psychologist with Uncover Mental Health Counseling, dubbed gate lousing a psychological issue.

“Crowding the gate often stems from a mix of anxiety and a desire for control,” she said. “Individuals may feel an overwhelming urge to secure their position, fearing they might miss out or face consequences if they don’t act quickly. This behavior can indicate underlying insecurities or a lack of trust in the process.”

This gate anxiety can, in turn, be exacerbated by seeing other crowders, like a herd mentality.

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