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25 Things You Should Do Before Boarding a Plane, According to a Frequent Flier

We've rounded up 25 things you should do before your next flight so you can relax and know that you're totally prepared.

Between making sure your suitcase isn't an ounce over the weight limit and rushing to your gate before the doors close, air travel can be a stressful experience — but it doesn't have to be. We've rounded up 25 things you should do before your next flight, so you can relax and know that you're totally prepared.

1. Download and Use Your Airline’s App

Unless you're checking a bag, there's no reason to queue up at the check-in desk or deal with a fingerprint-smudged kiosk at the airport. Download your airline's app ahead of time, make sure your reservation details are in, and then use it to check in. That way, you can head straight to security when you arrive at the airport. Delta's app, for example, will even check you in automatically 24 hours in advance of your flight.

2. Get the Airline Credit Card

Don't fly enough to earn elite status? Airline credit cards offer cardholders perks similar to elites, including free checked bags and priority boarding. Carrying one of these cards can save you money on luggage and ensure you'll find carry-on space in the overhead bins ahead of the crowd.

3. Have a Status Strategy

Speaking of airline status, if you are going for gold (or silver, or platinum) this year, make sure your frequent-flier number is attached to all your airline reservations. Even if you're not flying your usual carriers, chances are the airline you're on is partners with another you fly more frequently thanks to alliances. That way, you can earn airline miles toward status on every single flight you take.

4. Check Aircraft Alternatives

Seats and amenities can vary dramatically, even from plane to plane within a single family of jets in a particular airline's fleet. Once you settle on an airline, double-check the aircraft type and seat map on the carrier's site to make sure you're flying the plane you want.

5. Assess Your Seating Situation

Whether you like a window or an aisle , it's worth checking SeatGuru 's detailed seat maps to confirm your chosen place on the plane won't be too close to the galley or the lavatories, with their associated noises (and smells!).

6. Stay Organized

Keep all your information in one place by using App in the Air or TripIt , two apps that do things like consolidate your flight statuses, check-in times, gate numbers, and nearby lounge locations, and will update you on schedule and gate changes.

7. Check Real-time Reports

Stay informed about your flight's status by using your airline's proprietary app. But you can also take it a step further by using FlightStats to track flight statuses, on-time performances, weather conditions, and even the flight history of your specific aircraft, all in real-time so that if your plane is delayed, you can be the first to know and the first to get rebooked.

8. Remember the Liquid Lowdown

Remember, any liquids you're carrying through TSA checkpoints must be less than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and placed in a see-through bag no larger than a quart.

9. Sign Up for PreCheck, Already

Keep those shoes and belts on, leave the liquids and laptops in your bag, and forgo the full-body scans by getting TSA PreCheck . You could pay $70 for PreCheck itself or $100 for Global Entry , which also confers PreCheck (usually) and expedited immigration and customs access. Several credit cards, including the Capital One Venture and the Bank of America Premium Rewards card, will even refund you the application fee for either program.

10. Investigate Security Speed

Bypass the worst security checkpoints at over 200 airports around the globe by tapping into the MiFlight app's crowd-sourced, real-time checkpoint waiting times.

11. Size Up Your Bag

Many airlines have instituted strict size limits for carry-on bags, which are stringently enforced by eagle-eyed gate agents. Check your bag's dimensions at home and make sure they adhere to your airline's limits. Keep in mind that European carriers' limits vary slightly from those in the U.S. Blame it on standard versus metric.

12. Gather Your Gadgets

Phone: check. Laptop: check. Tablet: check. Camera: check. Spare charger: check. Power cords: check. Travelers are carrying more electronics than ever. Luckily, there are organizer cases galore to keep all your devices and cables within reach and ready for security screening.

13. Remove Those Batteries

Airlines instituted smart luggage battery bans in January 2018. If your bag has a battery pack, be prepared to show that it is removable in case your bag has to be gate-checked. But don't leave that battery pack at home, necessarily. Just because your airplane seat is supposed to have power ports does not guarantee that they'll actually work when you're on the plane.

14. Grab and Go

Hate airplane food, but afraid you'll miss boarding while waiting in a line at an airport restaurant? Use the Grab app to pre-order and pay for items at participating restaurants and vendors at airports in the U.S., Mexico, and across Europe. Place your order on your ride to the airport and pick it up on your way to the gate without breaking stride.

15. Connect for Less

Many airports offer free Wi-Fi , but beware of hackers. Using a VPN offers a measure of protection.

16. Lounge Around

Why wait at the gate when you can enjoy free Wi-Fi and snacks in the comfort of a lounge? LoungeBuddy posts reviews on airport lounges around the world, including their entry requirements and how you can score day passes. Several premium credit cards, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Platinum Card from American Express, confer access to hundreds of Priority Pass lounges worldwide. Frequent travelers can also consider airline-specific cards such as the Delta SkyMiles Reserve, which gets you into its clubs.

17. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Airplane cabin climate settings seem to vacillate between icebox and toaster oven, with no habitable happy medium in between. And no one wants to touch those germy air nozzles, which only provide a hissing draft of dry air anyway. Dress for any contingency by wearing multiple light layers , and look stylish to boot.

18. Stick Your Neck Out

As airlines squeeze more and more seats into coach, ergonomics seem to be flying out the window. Luckily, travel pillow technology has never been better, with options for every type of sitter and sleeper. It's time to invest in a quality travel pillow that will spare your neck and back the worst effects of a long flight .

19. Bring Your Own Bottle

Avoid single-use plastic (and a bottle of water that costs $8 post-security) by bringing an empty travel water bottle with you instead. Some are even collapsible to save you space, and more airports have installed water bottle filling stations next to drinking fountains to make carrying your own that much more convenient.

20. Disinfect Everything

Due to the number of people passing through and touching everything, airports and airplanes are some of the germiest places around (though in the post-pandemic world, many airlines are taking additional steps to ensure your safety). Protect yourself as much as possible by using disinfecting wipes on your hands and your airplane seat once you get settled. Because they're not liquid, like hand sanitizer, wipes will also not count toward your carry-on liquid limit.

21. Moisturize Like Your Life Depends on It

Even on next-generation jets like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350, cabin humidity levels rarely top 20 percent (and are only around 8-10 percent on conventional aircraft). To avoid looking like a prune after your flight, pack a light moisturizer and apply it frequently.

22. Get a Jump on Jet Lag

Flying across multiple time zones? Use an app like Entrain or Timeshifter before you fly. Both help you gradually shift your pre-travel schedule toward your destination time zone based on your specific plans and preferences so that by the time you fly, you're already ahead of jet lag.

23. Park Like a Pro

Airport parking lots can fill up quickly during the busiest travel times. Use SpotHero to reserve a place in advance at lots near more than 40 airports throughout the U.S. Also, put a car cover on to protect your vehicle from dirt, dust, and inclement weather.

24. Understand Your Credit Card Protection

Flight delays and cancellations happen. If you travel frequently, it pays to carry a credit card you know will protect you under certain circumstances. Many offer compensation for delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more if you use them to pay for travel plans. So, if you have to spend money staying somewhere overnight or replacing certain items, it won't come out of your bottom line. Before traveling, read your card's benefits packet carefully to understand what you're entitled to and how to go about claiming it.

25. Investigate Intelligent Insurance

Beyond delays, cancellations, and lost luggage, which are covered by most major credit cards, you might want to insure an expensive trip with a policy that includes provisions for emergency medical evacuation and cancellation for any reason. InsureMyTrip.com is a convenient resource for comparing travel insurance plans from major providers.

Bonus: Don't Forget the Essentials

If you're flying during the pandemic, you'll want to check your airline's guidelines for travel as well as your destination's requirements for incoming visitors. Stash extra face masks , wipes, hand sanitizer, and any other essentials in both your carry-on and checked luggage so you're never without them.

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Flight Tips , Travel Tips

25+ things to do on a plane so you’ll never be bored on a flight again.

Need ideas for things to do on a plane?  It can be hard to fill the time on long flights, especially if you’re an active person and aren’t used to sitting still for that long – without wifi!  But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered – after taking flights all over the world (even 16.5 hours from the UK to Australia!) I’ve had plenty of practice at finding things to do on long flights!  Check out these ideas for things to do on flights that will keep you entertained – or at the very least to help pass the time!

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The Best Things To Do on a Plane

I may have lots of experience with long flights, but I’m not a fan of air travel in general.  Whether you’re a solo traveller or flying with your friends and family, taking a long flight means you have a lot of time to fill while you’re cooped up in a little space.  

In this post I’m sharing my top travel tips and tricks for what to do on a flight, from catching up on some zzs to getting colourful and creative, you’re bound to find some great suggestions for things to do on a plane to pass time among all of these.

Don’t forget, you probably won’t have access to wifi on a flight, and you’ll need to put your phone and other devices into airplane mode before you take off.  

In-Flight Entertainment

Long-haul flights offer a variety of in-flight entertainment, from movies and TV shows to games and radio programs.  I love checking out the different options – deciding what to watch or listen to is the hardest part! 

However, instead of using the poor-quality disposable earphones provided, make sure you bring your own noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds.  Bose is one of the best known and best quality brands, or if you’re on a budget then I have a pair of Sound Core Noise Cancelling Earbuds which do a great job at a fraction of the price.

The most important thing to remember is to bring an Airfly Bluetooth transmitter to allow you to connect to the sound.  Airfly Pro even allows you to link 2 different sets of earphones so you can listen with a friend!

I was devastated when I realised I’d forgotten my Airfly for my long-haul flight to Australia, I bought another one as soon as I could so I’d have it for the flight home.  Airfly works with any headphone socket , on planes, trains, buses or wherever you can’t connect to the Bluetooth directly. 

It is definitely one of my long-haul flight essentials and is now on my packing list so I never forget it again!!

Noise Cancelling Earphones

My Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

Bluetooth Transmitter

Bring Your Own Entertainment

If you have them (and are prepared to carry them around on your trip), bringing your own laptop, tablet or Kindle is a great way to control exactly what entertainment you’ll have access to on a flight without wifi.  You don’t even need a separate device now you can use your smartphone for everything!

Make sure you download everything to your device so you can access it offline.  Apps like Netflix and Disney+ allow you to download movies and TV programmes to your device.  (Note: Disney+ lets you download to a cellphone via the app, but you can’t download anything to a laptop).  

Here are some ideas for what to check out on the in-flight screens or things to bring on a flight for entertainment:

Watch a Movie

Watching a movie on a plane is a great way to pass the time on a long flight, especially if it is an epic or a series of films you haven’t had a chance to watch before.  A long flight of several hours gives you more than enough time to watch a movie or two!

Catch Up on Your Favourite TV Show

Similarly, binge-watching TV shows is one of my favourite things to do on a plane ride.  I don’t often watch TV series as I’m travelling most of the time and aren’t sure what’s going to be available where I’m heading so like to take the time on a plane to catch up. 

I often binge watch old series I’ve seen before too so I don’t have to pay too much attention to what’s going on, and it won’t matter if I doze off part-way through!  

Listen to a Podcast 

I love listening to podcasts as I feel like I’m learning something!  If you’re on a business trip you could listen to a podcast related to your work (I have a couple of favourite blogging podcasts) or choose any topic you like to help pass the time on a long flight.  I usually use Spotify to download my podcasts, or there are various other apps like Apple Podcasts and Audible which have podcasts too.

Listen to an Audiobook

If you prefer Audiobooks, Audible has a great selection to choose from which can be downloaded to your device.  If you have an Audible membership  there are lots of free books and podcasts to download as well without using any of your credits.

There are lots of travel books to listen to which I like when I am on the road.  Pick a title about an adventure or about the destination where you’re going to get you in the mood, or choose an author from there so you can discover a new international writer and get to know something about where you’re travelling to.  

I do have a habit of falling asleep listening to Audiobooks though, so I usually have to skip back to find where I dozed off!  

LEARN MORE ABOUT AUDIBLE

Listen to Music

Music is a great way to pass the time on a plane, so plug in your headphones and listen to some tunes! Whether it’s your own playlist or streaming music from the entertainment system, be sure to check out what options are available for onboard music as well as whatever you have on your own device. 

Why not look up some artists from your destination so you can get in the mood and listen to some local music?  Music is a great way to escape and pretend you’re somewhere else, and it can help cheer you up or relax you if you’re a nervous flyer.  

Prepare for a long flight by making some playlists to listen to on your device.  I like to organise my music into playlists according to my mood, so I have some happy tunes, some chilled-out ones and some cheesy pop for a pick-me-up!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: What to Pack in Carry On Luggage

Read a Book

There is nothing better than snuggling down with a good book, and it is a fabulous thing to do on a plane to help the time fly by as you get lost in the pages.  If you’re heading off on holiday then some trashy chick lit is perfect for a beach vacation, or choose whatever you fancy.  

A Kindle is the perfect solution to having to choose between bringing several books – download as many as you like so you have a choice to suit your mood.  Kindle Unlimited is a membership offering unlimited reading for a monthly subscription, which is great for big readers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KINDLE UNLIMITED

Read a Magazine or Newspaper

If you have a favourite magazine, bring it along with you on the plane and enjoy spending some time reading or just flicking through the pictures if you’re tired! If you don’t have anything to read, airlines typically have inflight magazines that are available to read throughout the flight. 

Some flights offer magazines and newspapers to pick up as you board so you can read those, or get something at the airport.

There are usually some games that are on offer in the in-flight entertainment or download some to your phone to play on the airplane.  Some of the games on Netflix don’t require the internet to play (check each one as some do need you to be online), or download other gaming apps to your phone to keep you occupied on a flight.  Scroll down for more suggestions for travel games to play on flights when you’re travelling with other people.

A pack of cards is a simple thing to bring on a flight but cards can keep you busy for hours.  If you’re travelling with someone, play a game together (you could even ask someone next to you to play!) or set up a game of patience or solitaire to play by yourself.  The downside is you only have a small amount of space on the tray table, so whatever you play you’ll need to keep it contained!

Doing puzzles is a great way to pass the time while flying.  Bring your own puzzle book and pens to get your mind working on a plane.  Crosswords, word searches and sudoku are my favourites, but visual puzzles like Spot the Difference can work better if you’re feeling tired and can’t focus on anything too taxing!  You can usually pick up a book of puzzles in the airport shops if you don’t have one already.

Drawing or Colouring Books

If you’re not a fan of puzzles or just want something creative to do, bring along a sketch pad or a colouring book and a set of pencils.  Draw something yourself or use pre-done patterns to focus on the colouring.  Don’t worry, you don’t need to make a work of art here!  Even doodles, different shapes or patterns are enough to keep you busy on a long flight.

Plan Your Trip

If you’ve got a guidebook for your destination but haven’t had time to read it, now is the time to decide what you’re going to do once you arrive! If you have a paper guidebook, scribble notes and circle things you’d like to do so you can refer back to them later.

If you’ve got an eBook or Kindle version, write down some notes on paper or on your phone so you have easy access to them. Check out key attractions, restaurant and bar recommendations and get even more excited about your vacation!

Track Your Progress

I also love checking out the flight locator to show where the flight currently is, although on a very long flight, it doesn’t seem to move as quickly as I’d like!  I also have a window seat so I can look out for landmarks but even if I can’t see out of the window I like to know where I am and imagine what is going on in the towns and cities below. 

Write Something

I always have my laptop with me on flights so I can crack on with writing a new blog post, but you don’t have to write anything to do with work. Write postcards home or catch up with your journal. If you’re on your way home and want to share photos on social media, get a head start on writing those Instagram captions. 

Feeling creative?  Write a letter to someone special or write a song or a poem about your travels – you could even start writing a book!  Use whatever format you like – sometimes a good old-fashioned paper and pen will get your creative juices flowing more readily than a laptop keyboard. 

Get Some Work Done

If you’re heading off on vacation then the last thing you want to think about is work, but if you are travelling for business or want to get a head start before you go back to work then catching up on a few tasks could be useful.  Of course, it depends on what job you have, but if you use a computer for work then there is usually something you can do.

If you can log on to WiFi on the flight then you could do whatever you like – maybe get cracking on those emails sitting in your inbox!  If you won’t have wifi then check your emails at the airport if you get a chance then you could start drafting responses while you’re in the air, work on a presentation or a spreadsheet of figures.  I often draft blog posts when I’m on a flight and don’t have the distraction of Wi-Fi to take my mind off it!

Delete and/or Edit Photos

Not having access to the internet means you have some time to spend clearing some space on your phone – perfect if you are flying somewhere on holiday where you’ll be taking lots of pics! Take a look at old photos to see what can be deleted, or if you’re on the way home choose your favourite travel photos to share on social media or create a photo book filled with memories.

Make New Friends

This depends on who you are sitting with, but you could strike up a conversation with the person next to you and chat about the weather or something infinitely more interesting! If it is a very quiet flight then have a chat with cabin crew if they have time between service offerings.  

I love sleeping on flights as it definitely helps the time go more quickly! However, bear in mind the time difference of your new destination, and try to sleep according to your new time zone to help reduce jet lag. That is easier said than done of course, but using an app like Timeshifter can show you when to plan your sleep times.

To help you get some shut-eye when you need to, bring an eye mask and ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones so you can drown out the background noise and get some peace and quiet.

If you’re a fan of mindfulness, now is the time to practice! When there are no distractions (so avoid mealtimes), it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on your breathing and find some inner peace during the flight. Don’t forget some earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to help you focus.  

Eat & Drink

I wouldn’t usually recommend eating and drinking just to pass the time, but when you’re doing it on a plane it certainly helps the time to pass more quickly!  I bring my own snacks to eat in-between meal times (or if the food sucks) and always have my water bottle with me. 

Did you know that you can bring an empty water bottle with you through security and fill it up before you board?  Don’t buy a single-use water bottle at the airport, bring your own to save money and plastic use!!  I love my Water-to-Go bottle which has a built in filter so I can make any fresh water safe to drink.  Save 15% on your purchase with the code BYORB . GET YOUR REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

Do resist the temptation to get drunk on the flight though – the dry aeroplane air will dehydrate you faster and it can make your jetlag worse too when you wake up with a hangover!

Travel Safely

• Leave valuables at home and don't keep all your money and credit cards in one place.  I love hidden pocket clothing like this travel scarf for stashing my cash and passport or a belt with a hidden pocket.   Read more about how to hide money while travelling .
• Bring a water bottle with a built-in filter so you can safely drink water from any fresh water source while saving money and reducing plastic use.  I take my Water-to-Go bottle with me everywhere!
• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I always buy travel insurance and was very glad I had insurance when I had my laptop and passport stolen in Ecuador!  Consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost luggage and stolen items, as well as adventure sports and activities and more.  
• I chose World Nomads Travel Insurance for my recent backpacking trip to Australia and New Zealand.  They offer travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families and you can get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road

GET A NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from  World Nomads  using this link. I do not represent  World Nomads . This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Fun Things to Do on a Long Flight with Friends

Movie night.

If you’re looking for something to do that will keep everyone entertained for hours, why not have a movie night?  Plan to watch the same movie and settle down with some snacks.  Even if you’re sitting apart from each other you can catch up afterwards to discuss the best parts! 

Play a Travel Game

If you’re flying with family or friends, why not play some travel games to help pass the time? Classic games such as I Spy, Hangman or Noughts and Crosses are simple to play and work well for a while, but for long flights, it might be worth investing in a travel-sized board game to keep you occupied for longer!  Check out these fun travel games to play on a flight:

Travel Size Battleship

Travel Scrabble

Uno Card Game

Play Trivia

A quiz or trivia questions make for a fun travel game.  You can use travel-based apps like Trivial Pursuit that have built-in questions about different countries and cultures.  You could even create your own game based on the places you’re travelling to, with one person testing the other’s knowledge about the trip and what you’ll see there. 

Make it even more interesting with prizes of sweets, snacks or drinks for the winner.  But remember not to make too much noise, other people might be sleeping so you’ll need to keep your quiz time as quiet as possible!

Sensible Things to Do on a Plane

It’s not all fun and games when you’re taking a flight – here are some productive things to keep you busy on a plane that are useful too!

Sitting in the same seat for hours on end can take its toll on your body. There is an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long flights so get up regularly to move around and stretch your legs.  Movement helps to keep your blood flowing and stops you from getting stiff.  

Some long-haul flights also have recommendations for exercises you can do in your seat, with tips for bending and stretching your legs without having to get up.  Check the in-flight entertainment screens to see what is available on your airline.  At the very least, try making circles with your feet, and move them up and down.  Shoulder rolls and arm stretches will help too.

Read the Emergency Procedures

Make sure you read the emergency procedures in case you need them at some point during your flight. While it’s not pleasant to think about the worst-case scenario it’s always better to be prepared.  Pay attention to the in-flight safety presentation and read the safety card carefully so you are ready for anything.

Now you can sit back and relax, safe in the knowledge you’ll know what to do in case of an emergency – and it will definitely help pass some time on the flight.

Fill in Your Arrival Card

Depending on your destination you may need to complete an arrival card in order to pass through customs when you land.  Your flight attendants will hand out any forms you might need, so make sure you bring a pen with you to fill it in.

As well as a pen, have key information handy like your passport details, the flight number and the address where you are staying, as well as your contact details and an emergency contact.

Things for Kids to Do on a Plane

This is not my area of expertise as I usually travel alone, but if you need help entertaining kids on planes then make sure you do more research and prepare as much as you can!  There are lots of activities for toddlers on airplanes that might work for young children, from colouring in to watching TV shows and playing sensory games. 

Toys should be small, noise-free and clean so there’s no potential mess to cause chaos!  Check out Amazon for some ideas for play packs and travel toys:

Fidget Toy Pack

Soft Activity Book

Kids Travel Tray

So, there we are!  I hope these ideas for things to do on a long flight will keep you entertained for hours and help the time pass by in a flash.  Do you have any more suggestions for what to do on a plane that I’ve missed?  Let me know in the comments below!

Want More Flight Tips?

• 25+ Things to do on a Plane 
• How to Reduce the Carbon Footprint of Your Flights
• What to Pack in a Carry On
• How to Find the Best Flight Deals on Black Friday

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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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.

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.

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: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit 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. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels 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.

#prosvscons

The Pros and Cons of Travelling by Airplane

Exploring the benefits and drawbacks of air travel.

Travelling by airplane has revolutionized the way we explore the world. It has made long-distance travel more accessible and convenient. However, like any form of travel, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of travelling by airplane, examining both the benefits and drawbacks of this widely used mode of transportation.

From speed and efficiency to environmental impact and health concerns, there are various aspects to consider when evaluating air travel. Whether you're a frequent flyer or someone considering air travel for the first time, understanding the pros and cons can help you make informed decisions and better prepare for your journey.

Travelling by airplane offers a range of benefits that have transformed the way we explore the world. From rapid travel times to global connectivity, here are some of the most compelling advantages of air travel:

Missing a pro?

While air travel has revolutionized the way we move across the world, it is not without its drawbacks. From environmental concerns to potential health impacts, here are some of the key disadvantages associated with travelling by airplane:

Missing a con?

Travelling by airplane presents a blend of advantages and disadvantages that must be carefully weighed when considering air travel. While it offers unparalleled speed, global connectivity, and convenience, it also raises concerns related to environmental impact, affordability, and passenger well-being. By understanding the pros and cons of air travel, individuals can make informed decisions and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of aviation.

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#PROSVSCONS