flight travel for first time

27 Best Tips for Flying for the First Time (2023)

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 moisturiser 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, 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 More first time flyer tips: 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 PreCheck

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 light 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 (2023)”

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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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 $25 to $30. 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 $30 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

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:

on Bank of America's website

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

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 .

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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 our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

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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%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, 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.

$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.

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.

The ONLY Checklist You NEED for a Trip Abroad

Even after traveling the world… I STILL use this list before every trip!

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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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20 Tips First-time Fliers Need to Know

Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, here's how to make your first flight more enjoyable.

Congratulations, you’ve booked your first flight! Pat yourself on the back, because there are only a few more steps between you and a seamless flying experience. If you’re like most people, exploring something new — like the cabin of an airplane — can be daunting. While not every first-time flier will mistake the emergency exit for the bathroom, there are some common errors newbie travelers frequently make. To help you have a smooth and stress-free journey, we've compiled 20 tips first-time fliers should know.

Book a specific seat.

If you prefer aisles or windows to middle seats, be sure to choose your seat early. Select your preferred option when booking your ticket or log onto the airline’s website before your flight. Many airlines list the airplane model on their ticketing page, but you can also use a third-party site like SeatGuru to view seat maps. Don’t see a spot you love? Sign up with the website ExpertFlyer , which alerts you when your seat of choice frees up and is available to book.

Download your airline's app.

Skip the long lines at the airport by using your airline's app to check in, grab your boarding pass, and head straight to security. You can also use the app to check your flight status, including delays, cancellations, or gate changes in real time. Many airlines let passengers access in-flight entertainment through their app, so download it in advance if you want to watch movies on your own device.

Buy travel insurance.

Even if you plan everything perfectly, things can go wrong when you travel, from flight delays to lost luggage. Travel insurance can compensate you for some of these expenses and, at the very least, provide you with peace of mind. Whether you're looking to purchase flight insurance or a comprehensive plan that covers medical expenses like emergency evacuation, plenty of options are available. Some credit cards offer some degree of protection, such as lost baggage or flight cancellation insurance, so it's worth checking your perks before your trip.

Pack light.

The general rule when you pack for a trip is that you don’t need as much as you think you do. Traveling with only a carry-on can save you time at the airport and help you avoid the hassle of lost luggage, but you'll want to pack efficiently to maximize space. We've got a handy-dandy carry-on packing list to make sure you don’t overthink it.

Make sure your carry-on is the right size.

Domestic and international travel each have a different set of rules when it comes to carry-on bag sizes. Before you head to the airport with your carefully packed bag, check your airline’s carry-on size restrictions and if you have an additional tote, make sure it qualifies as a personal item.

Avoid packing large liquids in your carry-on.

If you’re not checking a bag, remember that carry-on liquids, gels, and aerosols have to be 3.4 fluid ounces or less and fit in a clear, quart-size bag. We recommend using a TSA-approved toiletry bottle set to transport your shampoo, conditioner, and other liquids without any issues.

Check your passport expiration date.

There is nothing quite like the panic that comes from booking a spontaneous vacation and realizing your passport is expired — or not realizing that you need a passport to visit Canada or Mexico. Adding to the challenge is that some countries won’t allow you to visit within six months of your passport’s expiration date in case you take an extra-long vacation. In short, it never hurts to check your passport’s expiration date and, if necessary, renew it before your next big trip. Also, if you're flying domestically, make sure your state-issued ID is valid for travel per TSA's identification rules .

Review your itinerary.

Traveling between time zones or around the world can be confusing. That’s why it always pays to take a tip from Santa Claus and make a list and check it twice. Go through your itinerary, confirm your airport (Did you book Heathrow or Gatwick? JFK or Newark?), your connection times (How long does it take to get to the train station? Which time zone is that?), and your plane tickets, including whether or not your name is spelled correctly on your documents.

While you’re working your way through the list, confirm your reservations for everything from hotels, flights, trains, buses, and tour groups.

Arrive at the airport early.

Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport three hours before an international flight or two hours before a domestic flight. If you're a first-time flier, give yourself extra time, especially if you’re flying during the holidays, traveling with kids, or checking bags. You can speed up the process by checking in online, booking a business class ticket with priority check-in privileges, flying with a carry-on only, or signing up for TSA PreCheck or Clear , which allows you to get through security faster. 

Figure out your phone plan.

If you're flying out of the country, contact your service provider in advance to buy data roaming and an international calling plan. If you do not want to use your phone while traveling abroad but have it with you, shut off the data roaming on your device or risk a hefty phone bill. Download travel apps before your trip and use them when you’re on the hotel’s Wi-Fi or purchase a local SIM card so you text, call, and use data while abroad.

Be respectful of your fellow passengers.

Plane cabins are cramped spaces, so it's important to be mindful of how your actions impact the people around you. There are several unwritten rules of airplane etiquette, such as wearing headphones while listening to audio, avoiding smelly food and fragrances, and sticking to your assigned seat. Most of these are common sense, but it's a good idea to review some of the unspoken rules of air travel , especially if it's your first time flying.

Adjust to your new time zone as soon as possible.

If you're traveling across time zones, you'll likely experience jet lag. To quickly recover, get a head start on resetting your body's internal clock by adapting to your new time zone during the flight (or even a few days before you depart). On a long-haul flight, set your watch or phone's clock to the new time zone so you can sleep when it's nighttime in your destination and arrive feeling relatively refreshed. Plane cabins are notoriously dry environments, so staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine and alcohol while in the air can help you mitigate the effects of being at a high altitude.

Don't exchange too much money before you travel.

It’s a good idea to have some of the local currency on hand when you land, but don’t overdo it. Too much cash invites disaster if it’s stolen or lost. Figure out your budget and grab some cash at your bank or an airport ATM. If you do run out of cash, it’s easy to withdraw more at a local bank or ATM in most countries.

Alert your bank of your vacation plans.

There are few things more frustrating than having your credit card frozen when you’re on vacation because your bank thinks your card has been stolen. While most banks are now sophisticated enough to know when you're traveling based on your recent purchases (e.g., flights, hotel reservations, etc.), you may want to notify your credit card company’s fraud department that you’re leaving the country just in case.

While you’re on the phone with your credit card company, ask them to send you a credit card with a chip in it (if you don’t already have one). While most places can still swipe your card’s magnetic strip, many countries are relying on chip technology for things like train ticket machines, gas stations, and food purchases. Having a chip card option can make your life easier when you travel.

Bring backup entertainment.

Most airlines offer free onboard entertainment, including movies and TV shows you can watch on a seatback screen or your personal device. Some carriers have limited options, so it's a good idea to check your aircraft's amenities while booking your ticket. In any case, it's wise to bring a book, laptop, or tablet you can use in case the in-flight entertainment system isn't available. Make sure you pack your charger or a portable power bank in your carry-on and bring your own headphones for better sound quality.

Wear comfortable clothing.

Whether you're taking a red-eye or a shorter domestic flight, you'll want to dress comfortably for the journey. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing, including an extra layer in case you get cold on the plane, as well as shoes you can easily slip on and off while going through security. Vacation is not the time to break in a new pair of kicks, so make sure you wear a tried-and-true comfy pair to the airport.

Bring your own snacks.

Don’t wait until you get to the airport to buy snacks for your flight. The restaurants and stores after security are notoriously pricey and often have limited options. Instead, pack your favorite nibbles that comply with the TSA’s rules. Stick to solid food items that don’t require refrigeration, such as protein bars or dried fruit and nuts.

Schedule a recovery day.

Many of us have limited vacation days, meaning we have to cram a lot of sightseeing, culture, food, and relaxation into an incredibly short time span. While you might be tempted to hit the ground running as soon as you land, scheduling some downtime after your flight can help you fully recover from any fatigue or jet lag. The same goes for the flight home — if you can, take a day off to relax and unpack before diving back into your usual routine, or you might end up needing a vacation from your vacation.

Use credit cards for purchases.

Back in the day, travel lore was to stick to cold hard cash (or traveler’s checks) while abroad. These days, the best exchange rates are often found using your credit card. When the sales clerk asks if you want the charge in dollars or the local currency, always opt for the local money as you’ll usually end up with a better rate.

That said, check whether your credit card charges foreign transaction fees and, if it does, apply for a new one before your trip. Chase Sapphire Preferred card and Platinum American Express are just two options that don't charge these fees.

Don't panic if things go wrong.

Follow Douglas Adams' advice from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy : “The most important thing a traveler needs to remember whether making their way through time and space or simply to Cleveland is this: Don’t Panic.” Things happen both at home and on the road and while missed connections, lost train tickets, or disappearing hotel reservations can be incredibly frustrating, panicking helps nothing. Stay organized and keep a cool head. By the end of the trip, you’ll probably have a great story to tell.

Here's what you should know about booking a flight for the first time

Ever since I graduated college in May, learning to be an adult has come with many firsts, to say the least.

I spent the beginning of my summer frantically running around the streets of Manhattan filling out applications with New York City landlords and brokers as I looked for my first apartment in the city. Then, I started my new job here at TPG in July. Slowly but surely, I'm starting to settle into this new chapter of my life.

However, since I began working at TPG, I haven't booked a trip fully on my own. The idea of booking a flight seemed so nerve-wracking and time-consuming. From figuring out the best dates to needing to wait until a certain day of the week to snag the cheapest fares, I didn't want to deal with such a seemingly extensive process. After all, post-graduation life is already full of so many growing pains, including the need to pay rent on time each month and learn the ropes of living on your own.

Now that I'm covering travel for a living, though, I've been itching to head somewhere for a quick getaway. So, I decided to face one of those many adult tasks head-on and book a flight — completely by myself — for the first time this October.

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Choosing a city

Most of my trips in the past have been family vacations. My first time truly flying alone was to Denver this past summer, but it was for a conference where I was essentially confined to a hotel for three days with hundreds of other journalists. For my first solo trip, I wanted to take a domestic trip that was far — but not too far — and to see somewhere I'd never been before.

So, I got to work figuring out where to go.

After extensive deliberation, I narrowed down my list of contenders to Austin and New Orleans. I had always wanted to visit the two cities, as each offers a vibrant food scene and a distinct culture.

Deciding between the two was difficult, but ultimately, I set my sights on New Orleans.

Now seemed like a good time to experience the city without the chaos of Mardi Gras or the hordes of tourists that come in spring and early summer. Another plus for New Orleans: There were more flight options from New York — and they were shorter, too.

Deciding on dates and times

For my first flight, I aimed for a short, overnight trip. I booked three weeks out — enough time to find lower fares and figure out where to stay after I finalized my flights.

I turned to Google Flights to see what fares looked like for the week of Oct. 24, the travel window I finally settled on.

I was happy to see that fares seemed low during the second half of October. So, I settled on an itinerary departing on Wednesday, Oct. 26, and returning on Thursday, Oct. 27. It gave me 36 hours to spend in the city — just enough time to get an overview of the Big Easy.

With the dates settled, I zeroed in on picking my exact flights.

Narrowing down airports

Now that I live in New York City, I have three airports to choose from every time I fly: LaGuardia Airport (LGA), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

LaGuardia is closest to my apartment, but the airport offered the fewest nonstop flights to New Orleans. As a result, I decided to focus on finding a flight from one of the latter two airports despite knowing there'd be a lengthier commute.

Picking an airline

I thought choosing a city was hard, but deciding on an airline was even harder. Since this was my first time booking by myself, I didn't necessarily have a particular airline I was loyal to.

I grew up near Newark's airport and had almost always exclusively flown from there on United Airlines for family vacations. I opened a United MileagePlus account last summer after flying to Denver, so the possibility of stacking up miles in that account was a consideration for me.

However, I didn't want to limit myself either, so I cast my net across all the major airlines to see what was available.

Besides the potential for earning miles, I considered factors like whether the fares were for basic economy or regular economy, if there were additional fees for luggage or carry-on bags, how convenient the flight times were and if nonstop options were available.

I looked at six different airlines: Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. I used Google Flights to get a general overview of pricing for my search (conducted the week of Sept. 26), but I then visited each airline's website to look at my booking options.

Spirit, which claims to offer the cheapest possible fares, was on the more expensive end once I factored in all of the add-on fees.

While fares to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) totaled $94, fees for "perks" like a carry-on bag and seat selection caused the total price for a round-trip flight to jump to $322.

On Spirit's website, some of the fares from Newark were astonishingly low, starting at $27 one-way. However, the single $27 fare available left Newark at 5:45 a.m., and I didn't want to deal with the hassle of getting to the airport two hours earlier, at 3:45 a.m.

The trips returning to Newark were more expensive, and some had such cumbersome connections — including one with an overnight layover — so they weren't realistic considerations.

Since I had never flown with Spirit before, I was hesitant to go for the airline's "Saver" option. It required buying a membership, and I didn't want to sign myself up for something if I wasn't sure I'd use it again.

In the end, the low fares felt a little misleading. Spirit tacked on additional fees to every other aspect of the flight, from the carry-ons to the seat selection. I didn't need to check a bag for such a short trip, but I wanted the option of bringing a carry-on for my flight. Without any of these perks, I'd be limited to just a personal item that would have to fit under the seat in front of me.

What shocked me the most about this process was how expensive the fees were for carry-ons. A carry-on cost $64 each way, which felt a bit unreasonable to me.

On top of it all, the seats were expensive. For the returning flights, the cheapest seats available for advance purchase were $6, but the cost of the cheapest possible seats differed for all four flights — I would have ended up spending an additional $101 on seat selection.

The total cost of a round-trip itinerary from Newark to New Orleans came out to $322 — a whopping markup from the $94 base fare that initially drew me in. That felt too expensive for an airline that has always been known for its cheap prices. The fares were low, but the additional fees weren't worth it to me. I'd rather pay a more expensive fare that included seat selection and a carry-on than spend an additional $228 for what I considered to be basic comfort.

Of all the airlines, JetBlue surprised me the most. The airline's "Blue" option offered fares at reasonable prices from JFK, with the added bonus of a carry-on. JetBlue has a "Blue Basic" option that had even cheaper fares, but because it didn't allow me to bring a carry-on, I ruled out the basic economy option.

With the "Blue" option, the total price of the flight came in around $197. I didn't have to pay extra for the seat or carry-on since both were already included in the fare.

JetBlue also had additional fees for perks like priority check-in and checked baggage, but since I only needed a carry-on, I didn't feel a need to purchase any of the extra perks.

Considering that I didn't have to pay extra for add-ons because I chose an economy fare, JetBlue became a strong contender. The airline's numerous nonstop flights to New Orleans were another plus, as they'd save me from transiting through another city as I would on have on other carriers' connecting itineraries.

With JetBlue, the option that made the most sense was a flight that would take off from JFK at 2:59 p.m. and land at 5:19 p.m. on Oct. 18. My return flight would leave New Orleans at 6:20 p.m., giving me a whole day in the city. While the timing was not perfect, both flights were nonstop and would still give me sufficient time to explore New Orleans during a quick trip.

Delta offered some cheap fares, with some as low as $190.

Even though Delta has a basic economy option that allows for a carry-on, I opted for the "Main" option, which cost $250. That's only $60 more than basic economy, and it allowed for seat selection without any additional charges, which seemed like a good value to me.

The $250 price tag was a little more expensive compared to JetBlue, but it didn't strike me as shocking since there weren't any extra fees tacked onto the fare.

Of the options available, the most appealing was an early morning flight at 8:20 a.m. and a nonstop return flight at night the next day. By flying Delta, I would have the better part of two days for exploring New Orleans.

While other airlines had later options, they either caused the fare to spike or created unreasonable travel times because of connections. That was hard to justify for such a short trip.

Compared to other carriers I considered, American did not have as many nonstop flights to New Orleans. Additionally, many of the direct flights from JFK no longer had a basic economy option, so I had no choice but to consider the "Main" option.

Luckily, I was able to find a nonstop round-trip flight with American. The main cabin fares totaled $198, which I found reasonable, and the itinerary would give me sufficient time to spend in the city.

Since JetBlue was the carrier operating these flights due to its Northeast Alliance with American, the round-trip itinerary's prices and times were the same as the JetBlue option I had been considering.

Given that JetBlue was operating the two flights, American did not have seat selection available on its website.

Southwest was one of the more inconvenient options I looked at, in part because of the carrier's relatively limited presence in New York. The airline had numerous itineraries, but many were sold out or had limited availability.

I favored the 2:55 p.m. flight from LaGuardia to New Orleans' airport, which was only $74 one-way. Luckily, it was one of the few time slots that didn't seem like it was going to sell out immediately.

For the return trip, there were even fewer options. I focused on the last flight leaving New Orleans at 4:50 p.m., but it would include a stop at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).

With Southwest, I opted for the "Wanna Get Away" fare for the extra flexibility. The total came out to $221, which was reasonable. However, other than Spirit, Southwest was the only other carrier with an itinerary that included a stop.

Because only one flight was nonstop — not to mention the higher fare — I felt less inclined to book with Southwest. Additionally, I wasn't the biggest fan of the times — I only had a day to spend in New Orleans, and these flights did not maximize my time on the ground.

There was also nothing on seat selection in the booking process, so the process of choosing a seat was unclear to me as a newer traveler. I later learned that the reason for this was because of Southwest's open seating policy, which allows all passengers to pick their seats as they board instead of choosing a seat assignment in advance.

United was the airline I grew up flying with, so I felt like I already knew what to expect from a United flight.

My search priced a United round trip in economy on my preferred dates at $208. I favored economy over basic economy (which cost $148) because United's basic economy option does not allow for carry-on bags. Compared to my experience with Spirit, a $208 round-trip flight seemed like a deal.

By opting for the 7:45 a.m. flight, I could have most of the day in New Orleans after arriving at 9:57 a.m. United also offered the most direct flights compared to the other airlines, which was perhaps no surprise given its large hub in Newark. Additionally, the return flight the next day was at 7:53 p.m., allowing me to maximize my limited time in New Orleans.

Since the regular economy fare included seat selection and was available for both departing and returning flights, I ended up not spending extra money on what the airline considers to be preferred seats — like those in the exit row or closer to the front of the plane.

Even with an upgrade from basic economy, my United flight was cheaper than other options like those with Spirit. Plus, I felt like I would get more flexibility from an economy fare while avoiding incurring additional charges for bare minimum necessities that help make a flight comfortable.

Earning miles in the United MileagePlus program was appealing, too, even though my ticket would earn fewer than 1,000 miles for the total trip. Because of this, the earning potential didn't end up swaying me much.

The final verdict

I expected Spirit and Southwest to be cheaper given their reputations as discount carriers, but both ended up being either equally as expensive or more expensive than the others, so I crossed them off the list.

Of the six airlines I researched, Spirit disappointed me the most with its many fees, and I was surprised at the fact that it ended up being my most expensive option. Southwest's fares were on par with United, JetBlue, American and Delta, but my main issue was that my returning flight had a stop. I also wasn't the biggest fan of the available times for Southwest — I chose a 2:55 p.m. flight to New Orleans because it was the cheapest option, but my preference was for something earlier in the day.

Delta was one of the more expensive options as well. A $250 round-trip flight to New Orleans wasn't unreasonable for the week of Oct. 24, but was more than I wanted to pay — especially given the other choices.

I ended up sticking to what I know and chose United. JetBlue and American were the cheapest of the six, but in the end, United was close in price and I knew what to expect since most of my flying experience has been with the carrier.

But, above all, it was the schedule that really sold me. The ability to leave New York for New Orleans early and return late at night the next day would give me about 36 hours to explore New Orleans. JetBlue and American were cheaper, but since I'd depart from JFK in the afternoon and then take an evening flight from MSY the next day, I'd only have around 24 hours in the Big Easy.

Cheap fares were important, but so was the ability to pack as much as possible into an overnight trip — and I feel like I got that with my United itinerary. A reasonable fare, a good flight schedule and now the chance to see someplace new all came with United.

It took a little effort, but I feel as if my research paid off. Now, I'm looking forward to seeing the sights of New Orleans — and to making my first solo getaway as a young adult.

There were some big lessons I picked up along the way. The fares changed frequently during my search. Plus, I never realized just how important good flight times were to maximizing my trip. Matching those ideal times to low fares was a bit of extra work, but worth the effort. And, beware of fees! Some of my original top choices nearly doubled in price once I accounted for those — a lesson you don't want to learn the hard way after you've already booked.

The process was a little intimidating and at times tedious, but in the end, I found what I was looking for. So, if you're like me, stick with it and see what's out there. Before long, you might be on a fun trip of your own.

• Airline’s Baggage Fees
• Golf Packages
• Golf Destinations
• Travel with Golf Clubs
• Travel Tips

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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31 First Time Flying Tips: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Flight [2024]

• Updated January 28, 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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Simple Flying

First time flying: what to know before you go.

With some knowledge and preparedness, one can breeze through the airport check-in, security, and boarding.

Boarding an aircraft for the first time can be nerve-wracking, particularly for people who fear flying. The best remedy for that is to become knowledgeable of the process at the airport. Simple Flying has put together a brief guide for first-time fliers.

What and how to pack?

While most domestic flights only allow a carry-on bag and a small personal item, travelers often like checking their luggage, particularly those with multiple layovers. Packing the hand luggage with items necessary for the trip is essential. Examples may include a set of clothes, a cozy pair of socks, travel-sized toiletries, a snack or two, and personal belongings, including jewelry, electronic gadgets, and chargers.

Read our list of essentials for your hand luggage here: The 5 Most Essential Things To Pack In Your Hand Luggage

Ensure that the carry-on does not contain any prohibited items, such as liquids or firearms. If little travelers accompany you, pack enough food, snacks, and travel toys for the flight. Having a couple of empty paper bags in your carry-on is always a good idea. All non-essential items must go into the checked luggage (if you pack one). Before your travel, check the baggage requirements (bag dimensions, weight allowance, and prohibitions).

Checking in at the airport

With air travel on the rise worldwide, it is essential to allow plenty of time to go through the check-in, security, and onto the boarding gate. Arriving early at the airport means the check-in counter is not busy, and you have plenty of time to present documents, request or confirm your seat assignments, and check in your luggage.

The Transport Security Administration ( TSA ) recommends checking in at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and three hours prior to an international flight. Prepare all required documents (passports, visas, vaccine cards, etc.) for check-in. Collect your boarding passes, luggage tags, and original documents before leaving the counter.

It is important to skim through the boarding pass to ensure the details are correct and that you can identify the boarding time, departure gate, and boarding zone. In case of any confusion, inquire with the check-in agent before proceeding to the security.

Breezing through the security

Most travelers get anxious about going through airport security . The number one reason for such anxiety is the lack of preparedness. Ensure no metals are in your clothes (belts, jewelry, keys, etc.). Wearing slip-on shoes is always recommended should you be asked to take them off for the X-ray. Liquids and aerosols must be limited to 3.4-ounce (100 ml) bottles in a one-quart transparent zipper bag.

The TSA advises travelers to pack their carry-on bags relatively neatly. That will save time should the airport security personnel need to perform a random check of the bag. Keep a close ear to the instructions from the security personnel.

Interested in similar guides? Check out our complete guides section here.

Getting to the departure gate

Irrespective of the time until boarding, finding and knowing the departure gate without unnecessary delay is always a good idea. The gate information and boarding time are printed on the boarding pass. Additionally, terminals have plenty of monitors that reflect gate information and update any last-minute changes. Follow the signs to your terminal, concourse, or gate, and arrive before the boarding time.

What are your thoughts on packing, check-in, and security guidelines for first-time travelers? If we missed any vital information, feel free to tell us in the comments section.

41 Useful First Time Flyers Tips: How to be Prepared (2023)

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 .

Table of Contents

• Travel Essentials to Pack

What to Do the Day Before Departure

Tsa tips for first time flyers, what should a beginner do at the airport.

• How to Board the Plane

What to Expect Flying for the First Time

Is flying for the first time scary.

• Tips for First Time Flyers With Anxiety

What to Do When the Plane Lands

• Wrap-Up: Best First Time Flyers Tips (2023)

Traveling Soon? Here Are the Travel Resources I Use!

🏡 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com and Hostelworld ✈️ 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 🚗 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 extra $3 off your ESIM from Airalo!

41 Useful First Time Flyers Tips (2023)

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 them.

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.

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

In this day and age, it’s all too easy to accidentally overpack or bring a few too many travel souvenirs home. Something that’s been absolutely 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.

👉 Click to buy the $12 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 as well as 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, hand sanitizer is a way to clean up if you have a window seat and 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. Remove the added stress and anxiety of low batteries by investing in a good portable battery.

👉 Buy the same portable battery that I use and recommend. You get two for the price of one, so it’s a steal in my humble opinion 🤠

8. Invest in a Travel Pillow

For those longer flights, or really 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. 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.

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 mint mentos to chew on. Having snacks also come 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 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, and that way you’ll be pleasantly surprised if it actually works!

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 some sort of alarm or reminder on your calendar to go off exactly 24 hours before your flight departs. 24 hours before your flight takes off is when most airlines allow you to check-in , and you definitely want to check in as soon as possible. There are three possible benefits of doing this: First, you will receive a move favorable boarding time. Typically, passengers are assigned boarding groups (or zones) based on rewards 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 and best 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 if you want 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 and anxiety, especially if you’re someone who knows they 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 really do if something unexpected happens, at least they can track the flight and stay informed. Plus, It can just add 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.

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 that is comfortable to wear 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 of time 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 absolutely 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 individual item can’t be more than 3.4 fluid ounces or 100mL. 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 .

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.

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 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, make sure you continue to frequently check your flight status. Sometimes, your gate number will change at the last minute. Most of the time, they’ll make an announcement if this happens, but not always.

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 definitely 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 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. Sometimes people are able to 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. For example, 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.

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 makes an announcement 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 also 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.

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 20+ countries and taking 50+ 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 being 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 is 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 own 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 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.

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.

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 will 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 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 sim card meant for the foreign country or countries you’re visiting.

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.

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 were 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 possibly 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 will 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 (2023)

I know 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!

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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!

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

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: October 26, 2022

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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Friday 26th of May 2023

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.

Tips For First Time Flyers: Preparing For Take Off

You’re getting on an airplane for the first time in your life and you have no idea what to expect? That’s fine – we’ve all been there at one point in our lives. It’s a nerve-racking experience, and the only thing you can do to make it better is prepare.

This is exactly what we’ll help you do with this comprehensive guide. We’ll take you through your first flight step-by-step, from when you should start packing to how you should properly deplane.

With our detailed travel tips for first time flyers, everyone around you will think you’re a veteran flyer, so keep on reading!

Note: If you are flying with toddlers , that is a whole other story and worth preparing for in a totally different way.

At Home – All The Tips

There are a lot of things that you need to do before you even get to the airport, and we are starting with those!

Pack Your Luggage

If you want your first flight to go smoothly, you should be well prepared and give yourself plenty of time for everything. So, you should pack your bags a couple days before your flight, and not the morning of it.

I like to pack my main suitcase two days before my trip, because that gives me enough time to pack absolutely everything I need, and wash any clothes that I might have worn but I want to bring on my trip.

If you’re bring a suitcase and a smaller bag, I recommend you pack the small bag the night before your flight. Put the items you know you won’t need in the morning inside it, and you can just throw in your toothbrush and phone charger once you’ve gotten ready for the airport.

If you leave everything to the last minute, you’ll have a very stressful morning, and chances are you won’t get to the airport as early as you’d like. Give yourself enough time in the days leading up to your flight, and everything will go smoothly.

Learn About Your Airline

It’s important to be acquainted with the airline you are flying with . Go on their website and download their app, and go through all the important information – luggage sizes, security procedures, baggage restrictions etc.

You should also look for information on how much time you have to check your baggage. Some airlines will stop accepting checked baggage 45 minutes before the plane is supposed to depart, while other will do it even earlier. And you don’t want to be stuck with a 32” suitcase that you can’t bring inside the actual airplane because you didn’t know that you had to check it immediately.

It’s particularly important to pay attention to the baggage size and weight allowances . And if you’re not planning on bringing a checked bag, this is something you need to do before packing. What’s the point of spending hours arranging all your clothes inside a suitcase, only to realize that it’s too big to be allowed inside the cabin?

You can find most of the information you need on your airline’s app, provided they have one. These are actually really useful for getting updates about your flight and checking in online, but we’ll talk about that later.

Read Up On TSA Restrictions And Guidelines (US Only)

Anyone who is flying out from the United States or flying to the United States has to deal with TSA. And they have a lot of rules, so be sure to read up on all of them.

Perhaps the best-known TSA rule is the 3-1-1 rule, in regards to the amount of liquids you’re allowed to have in your carry on bag. You can read all about it here ; the general rule is that you are allowed up to 3.4 oz of liquids, and all of the containers have to fit into a quart-sized ziplock bag . When going through TSA checkpoints, you will need to take out that bag and show it to TSA agents.

You will also have to take out your electronic devices – definitely think about getting a TSA friendly laptop backpack if you usually travel with a lot of tech.

TSA has a long list of items you are and aren’t allowed to have on an airplane, so be sure to go through it. Make sure that you don’t have any forbidden items in your carry on bag, to avoid wasting time on TSA checkpoints.

Get Travel Insurance

This is something you should do before your every trip, and not just before your first flight. I won’t go into too much detail – if you want to know more, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide to travel insurance and why you need it.

Basically, travel insurance is something you need whenever you’re traveling to a foreign country . It will cover most of the medical costs if you get into an accident or suddenly fall ill. And it could save you from bankruptcy if all your pricey electronics were to get stolen.

Weigh And Measure Your Luggage

You can prepare for your flight for days, but what happens when you arrive at the airport and you’re forced to check your carry on suitcase because it’s an inch taller than what the airline allows? That situation is entirely avoidable if you prepare for your first flight properly.

So, once your bags are fully packed and shut, you need to weigh and measure them . I’ve done a very detailed guide on the best (and worst) ways to measure the size and weight of your luggage , so check it out if you’re not sure where to begin.

Once you’ve taken detailed measurements of your bags, you need to cross-reference them with the airline’s baggage size and weight restrictions. And if one of your bags turns out to be too heavy or too big, at least you have some time to decide what to do about it. It’s definitely better to arrive at the airport knowing that you will have to pay an overweight baggage fee than to be blindsided while you’re trying to board.

Leave Early

The general rule of thumb is that you should arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight for domestic flights, and three hours for international flights. This will give you plenty of time to check-in, go through airport security, grab a snack, run to the restroom and get to your gate.

You might think that’s excessive, but it’s much better to be an hour early than two minutes late. That way, you will be able to deal with things you can’t plan for, like long lines at the security checkpoints.

Pro Tip: If you are taking an Airplane Selfie before you go, be sure to use the write Airplane Caption to go with it!

At The Airport

So, you’ve arrived at the airport two and a half hours earlier – what do you do next?

Prepare All Your Documents

First thing’s first – be sure that you always have your documents on you before you’ve actually entered the airport . If you haven’t already checked in online, you will need to show a copy of your boarding pass / E-ticket, or a physical ticket if you purchased one, and an ID . Your passport is another important item that you want to have handy at all times, and it should be without a passport cover.

Try to keep the important documents (boarding pass, ID, passport) somewhere where they are safe but easily accessible. I normally put them in one of the front pockets of my carry-on bag, or in my jacket pocket if it’s cold enough that I’m actually wearing a jacket.

Time To Check-In

If your airline doesn’t allow for online check-ins, this is the first thing you need to do once you arrive at the airport. Head to the check-in counter; there you will be able to choose a seat, and you can check in any luggage that’s too big for the cabin.

You will be asked to show your ID and ticket (or E-ticket copy) at the desk . Once it is confirmed that both of those documents are valid, you will be issued a boarding pass.

The process is a little bit different if you opted to check-in online. Most major airlines allow for online check-ins 24 hours ahead of the flight , which actually makes your life a lot easier. This is usually done via their website or app; once you’ve checked in online, you will receive a copy of your boarding pass. You can print it out if you want to, but a lot of airlines will allow you to just show them your copy on your phone.

The best thing about checking in online is that you can entirely bypass the check-in counter if you don’t have any large suitcases you want to check. This makes the entire process much faster and just makes the overall experience go smoother.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some airlines have baggage drop-off desks or counters, for people who are traveling with checked baggage but checked in online.

Be On Alert For Updates

Delayed flights are a very common occurrence, so be on alert for any updates about your flight. All airports have those huge screens that have info on all arriving and departing flights, so peek at them every now and then, to be sure that nothing has changed about your flight.

Additionally, most of the larger airlines will issue updates via their phone apps . Which is another pro of having their apps on your phone; the advantage of receiving a notification versus trying to find your flight on one of the dozen displays is undeniable.

Head To Security On Time

You’ve finished with the check-in process, you’ve dropped of your bags and now it’s time to head to security. Yes, that’s the worst part of the airport experience, but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or uncomfortable if you come prepared.

You will most likely have to stand in line , so why not prepare while you’re waiting? Unbuckle your belt and open up your bag, so that you can start taking out the liquids and electronics as soon as you’re in the front of the line.

But keep your documents handy , as you will be asked to show your ID to security officials.

Keep in mind that you will need to remove your belt, shoes, or anything metallic and entirely empty out the contents of your pockets . You need to place those items inside a container on the scanner belt, and then go through the metal detector yourself.

By the way , if you have any piercings in places you wouldn’t want to show to security agents, either remove them or put in non-metallic jewelry. In case the alarm goes off because you have a piercing in a place that is not visible when you’re fully clothed, you will have to show it to the security agents. If it’s in a really delicate place, you can ask to be taken to a private room and inspected by an officer of your gender.

Stay Calm And Collected

I know that dealing with airport security for the first time is a nerve-racking experience, and you might be tempted to make jokes. But don’t. For the love of God, don’t make jokes about weapons, bombs, terrorist attacks or anything in that realm – airport officials aren’t paid to laugh at your joke, and they have to take anything you say seriously.  If you make an inappropriate joke, you will most likely be detained and questioned. And depending on what you said, you might even face criminal charges. 

There’s no reason to be nervous if you don’t have any forbidden items on you. Stay calm during security check, be nice to the officials don’t say stupid things and you’ll be done in minutes.

Go To Your Gate Early

Once you’ve successfully passed security, all that’s left is to go to your gate and wait to board the plane. Boarding usually starts 30-45 minutes before the airplane is supposed to take off, but that depends on the airline. And once you’ve gone through security, you are officially in the secure area of the airport, also known as airspace. If you leave airspace, you will have to go through security again.

If you’re finished with security but your plane is not boarding yet, you have some time to yourself. Charge your phone, go to the restroom, go get something to eat – you can do whatever you want, as long as you don’t leave the airspace . Just make sure to be at your gate on time.

Don’t forget about the duty-free shops – depending on the airport, it could be a couple of convenience stores or a mini-shopping mall within the actual airport. Just be careful when buying food liquids – there are certain rules about items bought in duty free shops, particularly about nips and big bottles of booze. You can learn more about those in my detailed post on nips and airline regulations .

Once the plane starts boarding, passengers are normally divided into groups , in order for everything to run smoothly. Wait until the crew calls your group, show them your boarding pass and just follow everything they say.

RELATED: Wondering if you can leave the airport during a layover? Know the answer in this detailed guide !

Now You Are On The Airplane

You’ve finally boarded the airplane, but what now? Where do you put your carry on bag, and how should you behave so that you don’t give off that you’ve never flown before? Let’s talk about that.

Put Away Your Carry On Bag

So, the first thing you’re going to do when you board an airplane is put away your carry on luggage. If you have two bags, one of them is going in the overhead bin, and the other one is going under the seat in front of you – the latter should be the bag that holds the items you want to access during the   flight.

When putting away luggage in the overhead bin , always look if there’s room close to your seat. Some people will put away their luggage in the first empty spot they see, even though it might be 15 rows away from their seat. And that just makes it more complicated to deplane, as they have to walk around the plane and get in everyone’s way.

First time flyers should be aware that you should move out of the aisle as soon as you’ve put away your luggage . You don’t want to get in the way of other people, so once you’ve gotten rid of your bags, get in your seat and fasten your seatbelt.

And that’s most of it – the flight attendants will talk you through the rest of the journey . Stay in your seat until it’s okay to remove your seatbelt, and don’t use any electronics until the crew says that it’s okay to do so.

Check Before Reclining Your Seat

If you want to recline your seat, you need to do it very carefully. First, check if there’s someone sitting behind you – you don’t want to just ram the back of your chair into them. When you’re reclining your seat do it slowly and gently, and don’t recline it too much – just imagine how uncomfortable you would be if the person in front your did the same thing.

Also, if you get the aisle seat, keep in mind that people in the row behind you will eventually get up and walk around. Even if there’s not anyone directly behind you, a person sitting in the window seat won’t be able to move out of the row if your seat is fully reclined. Be thoughtful of your fellow passengers, and don’t do anything that you wouldn’t want to be done to you.

Plan Your Toilet Trips

Once you’re in the air, you will be able to get up and go to the bathroom if you have to. But plan your toilet trips – try to do it before or after the crew starts serving meals, as the food cart usually blocks the entire aisle.

Also , if you see that someone just entered the restroom, stay seated until they exit. You never know how long they’re going to be there, and it’s more comfortable to wait in your seat than in the tiny space in front of the restroom door.

If you get to the airport on time, you will have plenty of time to go to the restroom before you actually board the plane.

Don’t Pester The Flight Attendants

Just because there’s a button that lets you call a flight attendant next to your seat doesn’t mean you have to actually use it. The button is there so that you can alert the crew that you’re having a medical emergency. And if that actually happens, feel free to press it multiple times, to let them know that it’s really urgent.

It’s also okay to ring the bell is there’s something you think the cabin crew should know. Maybe an overhead bin popped open or you’re in the middle seat and the people around you are sleeping and you don’t want to disturb them.

But if you just have a question or want another drink, go to the galley and ask them in person. Or wait until a crew member walks past your seat, and then ask them.

Be Kind To Cabin Crew

You’d think this was a given, but it’s not. J.K. Rowling once said that you can a lot about the person by how they treat their servers, and boy was she right!

Flight attends are people like you, who are just doing their jobs. And you should be kind to them; always say please and thank you , just like you would to the cab driver or a waiter.

And if you’re not kind to those people already, you might want to work on your manners.

Once you Land

The plane has landed and you’re almost done with your first flight. But there are a couple other things to keep in mind, so that you act like a true veteran flyer.

Don’t Stand Up Immediately

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2PKGJhBAch/

Our instincts tell us to get out of our seats once our vehicle stops moving, right? But even after an airplane lands and the seatbelt sign is turned off, the doors won’t be opened for another 5-10 minutes. Yes, you need to collect your luggage, but how long is that actually going to take?

Additionally, think about where you’re seated . If you’re right next to the door, you’ll be one of the first people to deplane anyway, so just sit down and wait until the crew tells you to start collecting your belongings . But if you’re 30 rows away from the door, you won’t achieve anything by standing up as soon as the plane lands. You’ll only get in the way of other people, and you’ll give away your inexperience in flying.

Don’t Clap When The Plane Lands

View this post on Instagram i was quiet when we landed so they had a party for me A post shared by Michael James Schneider (@blcksmth) on Oct 10, 2019 at 10:38am PDT

There are two types of flyers – clappers and non-clappers. And the crew is not a fan of the former.

There’s no reason to clap once your plane has landed, so please don’t do it. It’s annoying, and frankly a little insulting – did you think you weren’t going to arrive to your destination safely, so you’re clapping?

Did you actually doubt the pilot with 20+ years of experience?

The only scenario in which it is mildly okay to clap is if you’ve had a particularly nasty or turbulent flight, and you’re sick to your stomach. But it’s only okay to do it if someone started before you and you’re just joining in.

And even then, it’s questionable at best. Just try not to clap your hands on an airplane at all.

That would be all of our tips for first time flyers. I think I’ve covered everything – be sure to let me know if you have any questions, or if I forgot to mention something important!

Connecting Flights

If you are just catching your next flight at an interim destination, you should just look for the gate of your next flight. If your flight is running late talk to the attendants to see if you need help getting there faster to make the connection. Most airlines are usually open to help you make your connecting flight.

Immigration, Customs & Baggage Claim 

Once you leave the plane, what you do next will depend on where you have flown from and to.

I won’t go into detail in this section, but roughly outline the scenarios.

• If you are on a domestic flight that stays within your country, you can go straight to baggage claim to get your checked luggage. The carousel will be on the screen for your flight number.
• If you are on an international flight then you will have to pass through immigration and customs first. Immigration is usually the same everywhere – fill out a form about where are you from, going to stay, whether you have been anywhere they want to know about and if you have anything on their customs list of limited items. Your passport will be checked and if customs is then relevant, you may have to go through there to be either waved through to baggage claim (nothing of importance) or to discuss what you have brought into the country. This part is very country-specific, so be aware of their rules before you leave and you will save time and hassle at your destination.

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About the author anna timbrook.

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Flying for the first time – a complete guide

A guide for first time flyers on a plane, with the tips and advice you need, so you can fly stress-free and avoid common mistakes on your flight.

• Post date November 12, 2018
• Post categories In Trip Planning

Flying on an airplane for the first time is an exciting experience, but it can also be daunting for some. How can you prepare for your first flight?

This step by step guide for first time flyers includes all the tips, recommendations and instructions you need, so you can fly stress-free and avoid all sorts of common mistakes.

How to book a flight

To find the best flight deals, you want to look at several flight search engines that compare prices for you.

Here’s how you do it:

Searching for the best flight

You enter your dates and destination, and within moments, get results from different airlines on your screen.

In the past you had to search each airline separately, but today the process is much quicker.

which flight search engines should you use?

SkyScanner  has always been my favourite flight search engine, because it’s so user friendly. That’s where I search first.

To make sure you’re getting the best prices, you want to look at results from a couple of sites.

You want to book your flights as early as possible to get the best prices. Normally, a couple of months in advance is good practice, as the prices goes up the closer you are to the flight date.

You can also find last minute deals, but that’s never guaranteed.

One more tip that’s important to know: You can fly out with one airline and return with another.

No need to book both flights with the same airline. Sometimes it make more sense financially, but often it doesn’t. When you search, select “one way” to see if you can get a better price that way.

For more detailed info, read my complete  guide to booking flights.

How to check in, choose a seat and receive your boarding pass

Online check in for your flight

Checking in online will save you time and stress at the airport.

The airline will normally email you with a link to check in. Click the link and complete the check in process.

If the airline doesn’t send you that email, just go to their website and check-in there.

When you check in online and you’re planning to travel with hand luggage only , this means that you won’t have to stand in line at the airport to check any luggage.

Otherwise, if you do travel with more than hand luggage, checking in online means you can drop off your luggage at the airport without waiting in the check-in line.

Choosing your seat on the plane in advance

During the check-in process, you may be able to choose your seat . This changes depending on which airline you fly with.

Low cost airlines will typically charge you for this. If you don’t choose a seat, it will be allocated for you.

You may prefer an aisle (useful if you want to use the toilets without waking up the person next to you) or a window seat (gorgeous views!). The middle seats are usually less convenient.

You can use sites like SeatLink and Seat Guru to look at seat maps of different airplanes. ExpertFlyer will notify you when the seat you want becomes available.

Your boarding pass

After you’ve completed the online check-in, you’ll get your boarding pass emailed to you. This is the document you need to present at the airport. It contains all the details about your flight.

Some airlines and airports allow digital boarding passes, meaning you don’t have to print out the document, just save it on your phone. In some cases you’ll be issued a paper boarding pass at the airport.

I suggest you download the PDF document containing the boarding pass that’s attached to the email from the airline to your phone. I also normally save a backup copy to Dropbox and make it available offline.

Later, at the airport, all you have to do is scan the code on the boarding pass, both at security and at the gate just before you board the plane.

If the scanning doesn’t work, enlarge the code on the screen, that usually does the trick.

Food on flights – special meals, airplane food and your own snacks

Many flights include meals, but not all of them.

Low cost airlines would often charge you for food on board. Long haul flights normally have meals included in the ticket price.

In any case, you need to check if your specific flight includes meals.

If it doesn’t, then you’re allowed to bring your own food on board. That’s something that many people do. I recommend bringing sandwiches, snacks and fruits.

You can also buy food on the plane. Each airline has its own menu. They’re normally not terribly expensive, but you will have limited choice.

If your flight does include meals and you have specific dietary needs (vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, kosher etc.) then you will need to order a special meal.

You can do that on the airline website. If you don’t see the option there, it’s best to contact their customer service as early as you can (no later than 24 hours before the flight) and ask for a special meal.

The wonderful veg*n travel guide Happy Cow has a full guide to airline meals for vegans and vegetarians . Generally, if you want to order a vegan meal, the code is VGML and the airlines call it a vegetarian meal, though it’s actually vegan.

Airplane food is notorious, generally speaking. It doesn’t mean it’s always bad, it just means if it isn’t bad, that’s pretty impressive 😉

That’s why even on flights on which food is served, there will be passengers who prefer to bring their own food and pass on the airline meal…

One thing you can do is ask in advance on travel Facebook groups  or on TripAdvisor’s Air Travel Forum about the meals at your specific airline. People are happy to share their opinions.

How to prepare before your first flight

Passport and visa.

Make sure your passport is valid and that it won’t expire at least six month after your flight.

Some countries require a visa from visitors. You can check visa requirement for the country you’re about to travel to.

The best way to do that is to contact its embassy in your country and ask them for official instructions.

Note that asking on Facebook or even just Googling the question will not necessarily give you the correct answer.

Foreign currency

You can either bring foreign currency with you or take money out at an ATM after you arrive.

In some cases you can also convert currency at your destination.

It all depends on which country you’re flying to, so do a bit of online research to find out what would be the best practice and how to minimise fees.

Arrange airport transfer at your destination

It’s a good idea to find out in advance what kind of transportation you can take from the airport into the city after you land.

You want to do this before the flight, so you can relax and not worry about it .

Arriving at a new country may be a bit overwhelming, especially if you don’t know the local language, so you want your airport experience to be as easy as possible.

In some cities, you’ll find efficient public transport links between the airport and the city, but that’s not always the case unfortunately.

The airport website should have details on your different options.

It will most likely save you money if you check your options in advance. In London, for example, there’s such a range of airport transfer options that you can take a bus for £2 or a train for £18 from the same airport!

Also note that in some cases you will get the best price when you book way ahead of time, because the prices go up closer to the date.

Here are some services you can use to book your airport transfer in advance:

• SunTransfers
• Shuttle Finder
• Taxi2Airport

Always beware of taxi touts. They are pretty common at many airports and will take advantage of confused tourists who arrive at a new country unprepared.

How to pack for your first flight

Different airlines have different rules about luggage.

You will need to check your airline’s  size and weight limits  for luggage.

Sometimes there are fees for luggage that doesn’t conform with those limits. Other times, the airline staff might ignore those limits at the airport, but why take the risk.

I recommend you fly only with hand luggage , if you can.

Then the first decision you want to make is between travelling with a carry on suitcase or with a carry on backpack.

I personally travel with a backpack ( this one ), as it’s more comfortable and efficient for my needs, though it can also be carries as a suitcase thanks to a double handle.

Many airlines let you add a smaller bag as well, like a laptop bag, often referred to as a “personal item”.

flying only with hand luggage has many advantages:

• Low cost airlines normally charge for checking extra luggage and their fees can be ridiculously high sometimes.
• When you fly only with a carry on bag, you save yourself time at the airport, both at the luggage drop-off before boarding and at the luggage pick up after landing.
• If you do check luggage, you have to wait by the luggage belt for your bags to arrive after landing.
• I also like having all of my things with me throughout the flight, rather than worry that the airline might lose my bags, or that something might be broken or even stolen.

That’s why I always fly with a carry-on bag.

What you pack in your carry-on bag is up to you, depending on your travel destination.

One of the best tricks if you want to travel light is to pack clothes for a week (even if you’re going to travel longer) and do your laundry once a week.

Make sure you don’t carry liquids over 100ml in your carry on bag or use solid toiletries to avoid travelling with liquids.

Also, have a look at the list of banned items on your airline’s website; it includes some everyday items like scissors and matches.

What to wear for a flight

You want to wear comfortable clothes when you fly. Wear something loose and don’t worry too much about how you look.

You’ll be sitting down in a pretty tight space for a long time, so do dress as comfortably as you can.

It sometimes gets cold on a plane. On some airplanes you will be given a blanket, but bring an extra warm layer with you just in case.

This is what I wear on all my flights:

• A comfortable t-shirt
• A fleece jacket
• A scarf with a hidden pocket for my passport

Things to bring on a flight to make it more comfortable

Sleeping during a flight is a wonderful thing, if you can manage to fall asleep.

It’s not always easy…. There’s noise, light, smells, sometimes  the seats are uncomfortable.

So what can you do?

1 – Use noise cancelling headphones – They will keep your environment quiet and let you sleep peacefully.

2 – Use an eye mask – They block the light, obviously, and some say they improve sleep quality. Plus, they take up minimal space in your luggage.

3 – Use a travel pillow – Flight cushions can really make a difference as to whether or not you’ll manage to fall asleep on a flight. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about supporting your neck.

At the airport – arrival, security, boarding

Arriving at the airport.

You want to find out in advance what’s the best way to get to the airport on time. Is it a bus, a train, a taxi , your own car, a lift with a friend?

Depending on the airport and the flight, you will need to be at the airport a certain number of hours before the the flight is due to take off. Find out from your airline when you should arrive at the airport .

Then work out how long it would take to get to the airport, taking traffic and rush hour into account.

If you drive your own car, consider the time it would take to find parking.

This way you’ll know when to leave home and not stress out about running late.

Check or drop-off luggage

When you arrive at the airport, look at the electronic Departures board and find your flight number. The board will tell you which check in desk to go to.

If you travel only with a carry-on, then you will save yourself time at the airport – you can skip the check in / drop off stage and go straight to security.

Airport security

Next is airport security. At this stage you will have your carry-on luggage scanned by an x-ray machine.

You will walk through a metal detector and you need to present your passport and boarding pass.

The whole process should just take a few moments, but the line might be long… Sometimes very long…

Some simple rules to remember about passing through security:

There are bins that roll underneath the x-ray machine conveyor belt. When it’s your turn, take one of these bins and put your carry on bag in it.

If you have a laptop with you, take it out of its bag and sleeve and put it in a separate bin.

Before going through the metal detector, consider taking off shoes, belts and jewelry, and check for coins or keys in your pockets.

Place liquids and creams in small containers of up to 100 ml inside a clear plastic bag. Security staff will through away any liquids or creams you have, that do not comply with the rules.

To come prepared, get yourself some leak-proof travel bottles for toiletries .

You want to make sure you don’t get dehydrated on the plane, but if you have a water bottle with you, you have to drink it before you reach security.

The best solution I’ve found is to use a simple, collapsible water bottle that doesn’t raise suspicion during security checks.

I can easily refill it once I’m done with security at a drinking water fountain. If there are no fountains at the airport, I ask at a cafe or restaurant if they’d refill my bottle with tap water. This way you never have to buy bottled water, and that’s an added advantage.

Security should go smoothly, but once in a while security staff may ask you to open your bag so they can have a look inside.

If you haven’t brought anything you shouldn’t bring on a flight, you should be fine. Last time I was asked to open my bag, it was due to a pack of chocolate that for some reason looked suspicious in the x-ray machine…

Once the security check is over, pick up your belongings. You’ll see the list of departures on the electronic screen and it will tell you the number of the gate to go to in order to board the plane.

Boarding the plane

Before you reach your gate, there will be plenty of shops and restaurants on the way, depending on how big the airport is.

The gate area is basically a waiting area where you spend some time before boarding.

Each flight has its own gate, of course, so check the screen next to the gate to make sure you’re in the right place – it will have the name of the airline, the flight number and the boarding time.

The boarding time on the screen will tell you if a flight is late.

The boarding gate might change, so listen out for announcements.

Shortly before boarding, line up with the other passengers. Depending on the flight and airplane, you may have different lines for different sections or rows.

Some airlines have a separate line for passengers with a priority boarding ticket, who can board faster.

To know which line you should be in, just have a look at your boarding pass and in case of doubt, ask a member of staff.

Congrats! It’s your turn to board! Have your passport and your boarding pass ready to show the staff and…. Get on the plane!

Sometimes you’ll have a bus taking you from the gate to the airplane, and in other cases there will be a jet bridge connecting the airport gate directly to the airplane.

Once on the plane, the flight attendant will check your boarding pass one last time and then you can go find your seat.

Stow your luggage above your seat. If there’s not enough room, try to find space nearby.

During the flight

Before take off, you will get full safety instructions from the flight attendants.

As long as the seat belt sign above your seat is lit, you should remain seated.

Obviously, you should be sitting down during take off, but there may be other occasions during the flight when you will be instructed to remain seated: Turbulence happens sometimes during flights and the crew will announce it and ask you to sit down and fasten your seat belt.

Things to do during a flight

Entertainment on a flight.

Some flights have in-flight entertainment – Movies, TV shows, radio shows and the in-flight magazine (those magazines are usually quite a good read!)

Not all flights have entertainment though and some may show a movie you don’t want to watch, so it’s best to bring your own.

Make sure your phone, tablet or laptop are fully charged and prepare some movies, TV shows, podcasts or reading materials in advance, taking into account the length of the flight.

I always take two power banks with me on a flight, so I don’t have to worry about watching videos that might drain the battery.

The last thing I need is to find I’ve run out of battery just as I arrive at a new city and need to navigate. It’s always a good idea to have a good spare battery.

You can also get wifi access on some planes, so you can be really productive.

I personally prefer not to do any work on flights, but just distract myself with a funny movie…

Also, a flight is a great opportunity to read that book you never had time to read in your daily busy life 😉

Sleeping on flights

Relaxing and falling asleep on a flight is a wonderful way to pass the time and arrive at your destination more refreshed.

It may be hard to fall asleep though. As I mentioned earlier, you want to pack an eye mask , noise cancelling headphones and a pillow for your neck to help you fall asleep more easily.

How to feel less nervous on a flight

If you feel nervous on your first flight and you’re flying on your own, perhaps try chatting with the person sitting next to you. It’s a good way to relieve some tension.

It is also a good idea to pass on alcohol, even if it is offered on board. It might make you anxious or just enhance any negative feelings you already have.

Sleeping is a good way to pass the time if you feel nervous. Try your best to fall asleep so you will spend less time worrying.

Another thing to do when you feel nervous is simply to remind yourself how rarely accidents occur in reality. You are highly unlikely to encounter an emergency situation on a plane.

The crew will let you know when to sit down and fasten your seat belt again, shortly before landing.

Landing should go smoothly, and if you feel a few bumps, it’s a normal thing. If you feel unwell, call one of the flight attendants, they are trained in handling these situations.

Looking out of the window during landing and taking pictures is good fun! Have a look at these fantastic pictures taken from the window seat .

After landing

That’s it! Once the plane hits the ground, the pilot drives it to the gate and after a short while you can get off the plane.

From there, just follow the signs at the airport.

There may be a passport check (depending on where you’re going).

If you travel with hand luggage only, you don’t have to wait for your bags, just go towards the exit and start your new adventure!

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very nice travel guides. Thanks a lot for sharing..!!

Hi tal, This is one of the Ultimate travel guides i’ve ever read. Thanks a lot for sharing..!! Love your blog and reading you here, so keep up the great work..!! and happy travel always

Thank you Laura, glad you enjoyed it 🙂

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Flying for the First Time? Follow These Tips for a Smooth Takeoff!

Flying for the first time can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, the airport experience is entirely manageable if you are well-informed and prepared. This guide will help equip you with all the necessary tools to navigate your journey successfully.

From packing tips to navigating security checkpoints, you’ll get an understanding of the entire process. With these guidelines, there’s no reason to stress or worry – just enjoy your trip and travel with confidence as you fly for the first time.

#1 – How to Pack Your Carry-On Bag

Before packing your check-in or carry-on luggage, the first thing you’ll want to do is check current airline and TSA (Transportation Security Administration) restrictions and requirements. If you’re going to get through the screening process or customs with ease, this is an absolute must!

When traveling by airplane, one thing to consider carefully is the size of your carry-on baggage. Different airlines have different regulations for what constitutes a legal size for a bag you can bring on board.

Failure to comply with these regulations may lead to having your bag placed in the cargo hold without access to your belongings during the flight. Before buying any luggage, make sure that its dimensions are within the specifications stated by your airline.

While traveling by air, your carry-on luggage will become your most prized possession. If your checked bag becomes lost, stolen, or delayed, you’ll at least have your valuables and essentials with you. A sample carry-on packing list may include snacks, a water bottle, electronics and charges, valuable items, your medication, and an extra change of clothes.

In addition to your carry-on , you’ll be allowed to bring one personal item such as a backpack or a large purse. This bag must fit underneath the airline’s seat. You can utilize this extra space to get all of your essentials on board with you.

#2 – How to Pack Your Checked Bag (Optional)

The best thing you can do for yourself is to make a packing list ! A list will ensure that you’ve packed everything you’ll need and will also ensure you return with everything you left with.

Most things you are not allowed to pack in your carry-on will be allowed in your checked bag. There are some restrictions, so check airline policies and TSA guidelines. Here are a few things to consider:

• Checked bag fees do apply and typically cost around $30-50, but some airlines may charge more.
• Most airlines have a weight limit of 50 lbs. If you exceed that limit you will be charged additional fees.
• The total linear dimensions (L + W + H) cannot exceed 62 inches or you will be charged additional fees.

#3 – When to Arrive At the Airport

General guidelines indicate that you should arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights in order to ensure plenty of time to check in, go through security and take care of any last-minute changes or paperwork related to your flight. You’ll likely also want extra time for plane or gate changes and delays.

Most airlines require you to arrive 30-60 minutes early to process your checked bag. If you do not check your bag in time, they may not take your luggage, and you’ll likely miss your flight.

#4 – How to Check-In To A Flight

Before your first flight, you’ll need to go through the check-in process. You’ll likely get an email notification 24 hours before your flight reminding you of the check-in. The email will send you to the airline’s website and guide you through the process. Typically, the check-in process includes reminders of what not to bring, allows you to choose or upgrade your seat, and confirms you’ll be on the flight.

The best option for checking in is online before you get to the airport. You can check in at the airport, but that could leave you waiting in a long line. If you choose to check in at the airport, you will be asked to use a designated kiosk (you’ll need your confirmation number) or to check in with an airline attendant.

#5 – TSA Security Checkpoints

TSA checkpoints are a normal part of the process and ensures everyone’s safety. This part of your airport experience can be the most time-consuming. You’ll go through several security measures to ensure restricted items, such as knives and guns, do not make it onto the plane. Again, visit the TSA’s website before packing your bags so you do not mistakenly put a restricted item in your carry-on or personal item.

The first checkpoint you’ll enter will require you to validate your identity. The TSA officer will ask you for your ID or passport to verify your identity. Once you’ve done so, you’ll head to the baggage scanner.

Want to streamline the process? Consider TSA PreCheck .

#6 – Baggage Scanner

The second checkpoint ensures that restricted items are not brought onto the plane. Once you reach this point, you’ll need to do a few things.

• Remove electronics from your carry-on and personal item and place them in a gray bin. The gray bin will then go on rollers that will carry your items to the baggage scanner. Some baggage scanners are more advanced and don’t require removing your electronics, but every airport is different.
• Remove your coat, belt, and shoes and place them in a gray bin and on the rollers. You’ll also be required to empty your pockets.
• Place your personal item in a gray bin
• Place your carry-on luggage on the rollers

If you follow my advice and pack according to TSA guidelines , this should be a breeze.

#7 – Body Scanner

Next, you’ll need to walk through a full-body scanner. This ensures that you are not carrying any weapons, drugs, or other restricted items.

Typically, you will step into the scanner barefoot and hold up your arms while the machine rotates around you. If everything looks good, you’ll be able to grab your belongings and head to your gate.

On occasion, you’ll be asked to step forward, and a TSA officer will perform a light body search to double-check check you do not have any weapons or drugs on you.

#8 – Waiting To Board Your Flight

Once you’ve reached your gate, you may have extra time to sit down and relax. You can also explore the shops and dining options nearby if you need something to do. Your airport may even have workstations for you to plug in and get some work done. If you want more of a private area, find out where the airport lounge is.

#9 – Boarding the Plane

Each airline will have a slightly different process for onboarding passengers. Generally, though, about 20-30 minutes before your flight is set to leave, you will start hearing announcements. Check your boarding pass to find out what boarding group or zone you are in. Then, listen for them to call your section to board.

Once you’ve boarded your plane and found your seat, you’ll want to put your carry-on in the overhead bins. Your personal item will need to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Lastly, buckle up! The flight attendants will go through all of the safety protocols and if you need a refresher, you’ll find a safety guide in your seat pocket.

#10 – Other Tips for Flying for the First Time

• Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to slip on and off, especially if you’ll need to remove your shoes for security screening.
• Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated during your flight, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
• Bring entertainment: Bring a book, music, or other forms of entertainment to keep yourself occupied during the flight.
• Relax: Flying can be stressful , especially if it’s your first time, but try to relax and enjoy the experience. Remember, flying is one of the safest modes of transportation.
• Ask. Don’t be afraid to ask questions at the airport!

Final Thoughts on Flying For the First Time

Flying for the first time can be a daunting experience, so it’s essential to plan ahead and travel smartly. Make sure to give yourself plenty of extra time, so you don’t feel rushed when you arrive at the airport. The most important tip is to familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies and TSA guidelines. Doing these things will make your first flight much less intimidating!

This article Flying for the First Time? 10 Tips for a Smooth Takeoff! originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Photo Credit: [@mikdam/DepositPhotos]

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

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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 .

Stay informed on our latest news!

• 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
• Travel Tips for First Time Flyers
• 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.

Picture this: After tough negotiations (and some serious haggling), you're going to France for that gap year you've saved for. Or maybe you're well on your retirement, and you've spent a few years of saving-up your credit card miles for that Asian trip you've always dreamed about.

Whatever the circumstances, it is best to prepare yourself, especially if you're a first-time flyer. Even seasoned jet setters would tell you that preparation is half of the work, that is why we're giving you important tips on how to survive about any airplane situation you may encounter. Let's 'fly' in on the fun, shall we?

1. Passport...check. Ticket...check.

Spontaneous vacations are all the rage. However, there's nothing like the taste of panic when you realize your passport is expiring in less than a month. 

Or when you forget all about a trip you were supposed to make. Try to coordinate all of your bookings, expiration dates, and government transactions in your tangible and virtual calendars, so you don't get them all mixed-up.

2. Read about airport and airline regulations beforehand...

A few weeks (or even months) before your travel, you have to know about all the nitty-gritty details, especially when it comes to your airport and airline regulations.

Important things, such as cancellation procedures, possible rebooking, travel insurance, and general protocol, these things might save you more than a buck, especially when something unexpected comes up.

3. ...and be updated about your country's Embassy contact information.

It's better to be well-prepared in case of an emergency. Your consulate could help you in so many ways. This is why you must note their contact details and location. A full list of U.S. Embassy and Consulates, can be found here .

4. A Trip to the Doctor

Before your scheduled trip, it is best to stay on the safe side and arm yourself from different diseases and illnesses. Schedule an appointment with your doctor and update him or her about your travel plans. See if there are any vaccines that you may have to get (Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies, etc.).

If you have any preexisting conditions that need to be addressed, you have to inform your doctor about your travel and any other certifications and adjustments related to your treatment.

5. Make a List (and check it twice)

Santa ACTUALLY gets it. Generally speaking, it's recommended to sit down and make a list of all your items before they even go near your suitcase. You can do this on your phone, or have a separate, small notebook for this purpose (which could also double as a list for your expenses).

This would ensure that you have all of your essentials with you, you avoid packing too much, and provide a good visual cue when you're hitting the point of 'excess.'

Possible essentials to include are the following:

• Passport, Invitation Letter, and Visa (as needed)
• Departure and Return Flight Tickets (aside from printed copies, try to have back-up digital copies on your phone and cloud)
• Hotel Reservations (printed and digital copies)
• Credit Card and Cash (home and local currency)
• Company I.D.
• Charger and/or Power Bank (10,000 - 20,000 mAh)
• Medications (Maintenance meds, antiemetics for nausea and airsickness, diarrhea meds)
• Pen and a small notebook for important details
• Address and contact details of the hotel you will be staying in

Lastly, try to keep digital, secure copies of the fronts and backs of all credit cards, passports, and I.D.s. Inform your credit card company of your scheduled travel, as they may associate foreign purchases with fraudulent activity and freeze your card.

6. Travel Light

And yes, we mean light. Please don't stuff three bottles of perfume, or your hairdryer and curling iron if you're not even sure you'll use them. Save the hassle for later. We promise, you won't have a great time in those thigh-high boots; back into the closet they go!

7. Pack a Small Bag for Valuables

For your convenience, it's best to have a small travel purse with a sturdy strap where you can keep your passport, ticket, identification cards, and other important belongings with you. It's good to invest in anti-theft bags, which are travel-friendly and lightweight.

Depending on the airline, you can even keep this with you on your seat, and you won't have to put it up on the overhead luggage compartment.

8. Consider Travel Insurance

We all have that one friend who just won't shut up about insuring everything they own. Yes Todd we did know you just saved 15% by switching to Geico, you told us last week.

So what does Todd have that you don't? Peace of mind. Travel insurance is worth looking into. Maybe take some notes and get some quotes before you push through with any travel plans. If your present insurance plan doesn't cover it, it's best to ask your current provider if there's any way to get it for less, or research

a plan that's best for you.

This will safeguard you against lost or stolen luggage, rebooking, canceled flights, and pretty much any untoward inconvenience.

9. How Soon is Too Soon at the Airport?

At least 2 to 3 hours before your flight schedule, you should be at the airport. That's the standard since you have to make time for security checks, immigration questions (especially international flights), and possible inconveniences that may arise.

For flights during peak travel seasons and holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.), you may want to arrive at least 4 hours before to ensure that you've got everything covered. Try to research possible holidays or events that might take place during your travel period.

10. Keep the Gadgets to a Minimum

For the Millennials, this may be a bit difficult to do. Multi-use electronics that take up less space are good for travel. Unless you have some important business to attend to, there's no need to lug your heavy laptop, huge lenses, and tripods around. Your phone is perfectly fine.

11. Apps to the Rescue

Download apps that may come in handy during your travels. Most countries do have Uber or Grab (Asian Countries); some even have local transportation booking counterparts that you may want to use. Subway map apps are also great, especially if you're bent on commuting.

You can also download safety apps, like bSafe or BlueLight, which can notify your friends and loved ones in case you're in a compromising situation. They can contact local assistance for you as needed.

12. Dress Down and Inconspicuously

You may have a signature style or a specific fashion sense, but especially when you're traveling alone, it's best to take the attention off of yourself for your own safety. That means, dress comfortably and appropriately when you're going out. Try to take note of religious practices and general taboos - especially when it comes to dressing in the country you're going to visit.

13. Don't Make it Rain - Stick to your Budget

You can research the cost of living and possible expenses in the area before you make your trip. Before any major purchases and unexpected bookings, you may want to take a step back and think if it is really necessary or if it can add some value to your experience in the country.

Some travelers would tell you that it's good to list all of your expenses EVERY SINGLE DAY, so that you don't go overboard.

14. Check your Luggage and Travel Bags first

A good practice that you can do before your trip is to check your luggage and travel bags for any cracks or damage. This will ensure that your belongings are intact. You also need to have TSA (Transportation Security Administration) - approved locks on your bags, so that airport authorities wouldn't have to cut off your suitcase lock or, worse, rip your bag apart.

15. Relax, and be Flexible about Travel Plans

For a trip to qualify as successful, it must be realistic and flexible enough to accommodate some changes. Don't be too uptight about your schedule - you will set yourself up for frustration and stress. Try to have a contingency plan in case something unexpected comes up, which may include side trips to nearby museums, parks, and restaurants.

And there you have it! With every first time, experience comes an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and a bit of muscle and manual labor. But know that with every mile that you cross, you're just steps away from new faces, experiences, and sensations. Enjoy, and safe travels!

Written by Fly Fright Staff , Staff Writer

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50+ Genius Travel Hacks For First Time Flyers

Wondering what are the tips, tricks, and travel hacks for first-time flyers? With everything that is going on around the world, many of us are considering leaving our homes temporarily and voyaging to unfamiliar places that will make us feel alive and excited about life. COVID-19 undoubtedly affected our lives and mental health, which is why there is no surprise why many are becoming more motivated to break free from their comfort zones and expose themselves to new places and experiences and  connect with people . Are you one of those people craving some “ me ” time in a foreign land? Then this post is perfect for you!

The pandemic has been particularly harsh in the tourism and hospitality industry. Earlier this year, airlines specializing in international flights found themselves with no choice but to  lay off thousands  of their staff to make ends meet. In fact, recent reports are also suggesting that jobs related to this industry are already at their lowest levels in decades, and this is due to the fact that long-haul flights have been put on a halt since last year. Fortunately, COVID-19 vaccines are now available, and this is the game-changer that we’ve all been waiting for.

Today, numerous countries and airlines are holding campaigns and discounted flight prices, intending to get people interested in traveling once again. Perhaps, this is also why you landed on this post. You are probably a first-time flyer wondering if now is the best time to take your first trip internationally. Well, the truth is… there is no better time to travel than today! You see, most travelers will be surprised to know that round-trip tickets are now at their lowest prices ever! For instance, you can score a round-trip ticket to Tokyo from the U.S for as low as $173! On top of that, hotels prices are also at their all-time low prices!

Now, if you are interested in enjoying your first flight and snagging some major savings, read on below to learn more about our tips perfect for a first-time flyer like you.

How To Find The Best Deals For Booking Your Flight

Contrary to common belief, traveling does not have to be hard, and it is much easier than you think. You no longer have to ask some sketchy person out there to book your flights for you, as you can simply do that on your own within 10 minutes or less just by using your phone. Furthermore, by doing this on your own, you can explore different prices and promos and score the lowest-priced flights depending on the day you want to travel.

To avoid paying higher prices, take note of these 10 easy travel hacks for first-time flyers below.

• Plan ahead and learn to be flexible when choosing the date and time for your destination. Most airlines have lower prices for international flights if you will  book at least 6 to 10 weeks before your desired travel date . Also, make sure to choose the flight time depending on your preference. Pay attention to flights scheduled at midnight as these are usually cheaper.
• If you are still stuck in the rut and unsure of where your next big trip will be, make sure that you  download flight booking apps or websites  so you can have easy access to cheap flights anywhere in the world. Depending on the platform you will use, a first-time traveler like you can set up a trigger notification that will let you know if a certain flight is within your budget. You can try out  Kayak  and  Skyscanner  to check for flight information and other stuff.
• Frequent travelers know that internet  cookies  can play a major role when it comes to booking your local or international flight. These cookies are trackers, which means that they can see the information you are searching for on their website, which is the reason why the prices are somewhat increasing every time you visit their site and search for the same information. As a rule of thumb, you can consider  searching using the incognito mode  so that the prices will be the same no matter how many times you check on something.
• Want to travel on a shoestring budget? You should consider booking flights on weekdays and  avoid flights dates that will fall on a weekend or a public holiday .
• If you want to travel the way flight attendants do, then you should learn how to pack smartly and maximize the carry-on bag weight limit. Depending on the country and airlines you are flying with, you can consider not paying for checked luggage and  simply using the carry-on baggage allowance . Usually, the total weight must not exceed 10 kgs which is totally enough, especially if you are just traveling for less than a week. If you are from the US, TSA’s rules suggest that there are also no weight restrictions so long as the baggage should not be larger than 22″ long, 14″ wide, and 9″ high (including handles and wheels).
• If you want a truly impressive long flight experience, there are travelers who say that connecting flights are much more enjoyable as this allows you to get to two countries in just one go. Depending on the place you will visit, there are some crazy flight booking deals that you can purchase if you go after  flights with one or two stops  in different countries. Some countries even allow first-time flyers to leave the transit area so long as they have enough time and a visa (when necessary).
• And since you are booking a flight, do remember that you must c heck your seat information  in the boarding pass. If you want to ensure that you will get a window seat or aisle seat, it is recommended that you come to the airport early and check whether the airlines will ask you to pay extra before your check-in. If you also want your personal space in an economy flight, you may also pay to keep the middle seat empty so that you won’t be sitting next to a total stranger. This is a perfect approach given the pandemic.
• When getting your boarding pass for the first flight, always pay attention to last-minute announcements. More often than not, airlines will announce c omplimentary checked bags . This means that instead of just being able to put your things in the small luggage space at the overhead bin, you can safely have your items as checked luggage for free.
• Afraid of traveling alone? Check social media and popular websites like Groupon and Travelzoo to  look for budget-friendly travel packages . Not only do travel groups know the best prices, but they can also arrange hotels, car rentals, and easy access to tickets to your desired places.
• In as much as we want to always save on our expenses for our first flight, do remember that safety is a must. With this being said,  always tick on the travel insurance  that is usually offered when you are booking a flight. Travel insurance ensures that old and first-time flyers are protected no matter the uncertainties.

How To Book Your Stay

Tired from a long-haul flight? Be worry-free as soon as you arrive by securing a place to stay right away.

For first-time flyers out there, we do understand that booking for the best hotel near some of the major airports can be tricky. As a responsible traveler, it is a must that you book your stay before you even touchdown the country in order to ensure that you will have a room and secure a price that is within your budget. Below are five major travel hacks by which you can score an inexpensive room for your stay.

• For first-time flyers with credit cards, do c heck whether your bank offers cashback when booking fares and hotels. If it does have rewards, you can definitely use the cards to book right away and earn some portion from it. However, di remember that you might incur foreign transaction fees.
• Sign up for loyalty or rewards programs offered by various booking websites. Websites like Agoda or Expedia can offer you certain perks and points which you can use the next time you book for a room. In addition, sites like these can help you compare prices and check your options.
• Aside from hotels, one budget-friendly way to score a room is by looking for a hostel . A hostel is like a dormitory which means that you might spend the night with other travelers and share the same amenities. The only downside is that you might not be able to fall asleep quickly if you happen to become roommates with someone who is a bit noisy.
• If your motivation for traveling is to get close to the locals, you might want to check out various websites that offer free accommodation in exchange for your help, time, and expertise . Some of the most recommended platforms include Couchsurfing , THS, and WWOOF .
• If you want to play the gambling game, then you might want to check out last-minute deals from Hotel Tonight . It is a search engine where you can check available rooms at this very minute at discounted prices.

Essential Travel Documents For All Travelers

Before you pack your carry-on and check luggage, it is important that you secure pertinent travel documents before your flight. Depending on the country you are visiting, processing these documents may take some time, so be sure to review the requirements first. After all, you do not want to be stopped by gate agents at the security checkpoint at the departure gate, right?

As a rule of thumb, do remember that every country has its own policies. What we will present here are the most common documents you must prepare so that you can contact the immigration officers with confidence.

• Travel insurance certificate
• Copies of your travel itinerary details
• A printed copy of the official receipt or confirmation for hotel booking
• COVID-19 health passport or certificate of vaccination
• Swab test results or any proof of negative COVID-19 test at least 72 hours before the flight.
• Driver’s license (especially if you plan to rent a car in your chosen country)
• Passport (not expiring in 6 months)
• Travel visa (if necessary)
• If you are importing personal medicine that is restricted in the country, be sure to bring a medical certificate for your medications from your doctor.
• Custody documents (if you are traveling with minors who are not your children)
• Bank details showing that you have enough money to cover your expenses for the stay

For processing the visa, please note that every consulate has its own processes. Some can process this within 1 to 3 business days, but there are also consulates that can take almost half a month. Also, be mindful of the fact that the term for the visa can be anywhere between 15 to 90 days, depending on the result of their evaluation. Below are a few tips and documents that you can prepare beforehand.

• Prepare for an interview with the visa assessor. Usually, they will ask about your intentions for flying out, and it is crucial that you do not give mixed signals when you answer them.
• Complete the visa application form
• If a family member invites you, you can ask them to become your guarantor and answer the consulate’s official invitation letter.
• Copies of your birth certificate
• A passport that is not expiring within the next 6 months
• A photo (depends on the specific sizes needed by the consulate)
• Proof of financial support/banking details
• Travel insurance
• Visa application fees
• Airplane tickets

How To Pack Smarter And Lighter

Have you ever wondered how flight attendants are able to fit everything in their miniature carry-on luggage pieces? The answer to that is that they try to maximize the space and make sure that they pack light in as much as they can.

Once you already have your visa and travel documents ready, another important thing that you should focus on before your take-off is your luggage. Of course, we all want to ensure a great flight experience which is why we highly recommend that you stick with the luggage policies of the airlines you are flying with. For instance, you must know the exact sizes that will fit in the checked baggage and overhead bin before you even arrive at the airport.

As you get your boarding pass, your baggage will undergo airport security and the weighing process. If the weight exceeds, you will have to pay an extra fee. If you plan to stay in the country for three days, you can also save tons by simply using a big backpack. By doing so, you can save on money and time as you no longer need to pay extra for the luggage space and line up at the baggage claim area once you arrive. Here are 5 more tips by which you first-time flyers can save on space for their flight.

• Tailor your attire to the itinerary  you have prepared. If you plan to go on a lot of hiking adventures, then it would be wise to bring at least two shoes meant for the occasion. If you will visit conservative countries,  adapt your wardrobe  accordingly.
• Make use of every inch of space in your luggage . Instead of just adding shoes to your backpack, make sure to use the inside of the shoes to store some socks and other small items.
• Roll clothes  to save space and think of outfits that have lighter fabrics.
• Size down your toiletry kit , especially if you booked a hotel that will provide the basics during your stay.
• Use travel vacuum seal storage bags  to save even more space.

In Transit Tips For First-Time Flyers

Your first-time flying experience is truly something you will remember for the years to come. To ensure that you can get to your seat quickly and reach your destination without any hassle, it is advisable that you  come to the airport at least two hours before the flight . This will give you enough time to find the right gate and check whether there will be a delay. If this is the first time you are setting foot at the airport, be sure to  check the free airport maps  which you can find at the entrance.

Below are some airport hacks which will be useful for your travel:

• Always  eat before you enter the airport  since the price of food inside can be pretty steep!
• Have your  local currency exchanged outside than in the airport  to get a better price value.
• Afraid of having a dead phone? Not all airplanes have sockets, so it would be wise to  bring a portable battery charger  just in case your phone’s juice starts to get low.
• If your flight is in the morning or in the afternoon, you can  bring an eye mask so you can sleep . Most airlines also have this ready, so you can request one if needed.
• Avoid jet lag and make your sleep even comfier by  bringing your own neck pillow and earplugs.

Sightseeing Travel Hacks For First-Time Flyers

Once you have reached your destination, the real fun begins! While preparing for your flight, there’s nothing more that we can recommend than binge-watching or studying about the country’s culture, traditions, and language. We are recommending this because there are countries and conservative societies which have very mixed perceptions regarding foreigners. To prevent rubbing off the wrong way, you must be on your best behavior, and you must learn how to read the air. Having knowledge of the basics such as these can help you connect deeply with the locals. Check out these 10 travel tips that you should take note of.

• Be open to conversations and greet the locals.
• Depending on the country where you will visit, it is important that you try to learn their language so you can get by easily.
• Download Google Lens so you can get instant translations
• Stay away from touristy places and go where the locals go.
• Stop converting the currency at the top of your head so that you can spend without any worries. Just try to be within your budget.

Where Are You Headed Next?

As we reach this part of the post, we hope that you were able to learn more about the genius ways by which you can prepare for your next adventure. At the end of the day, preparation is the key, and failure to do so can cause significant problems on your end. So, now the question is… where are you headed next? If you are still stuck on the rut and unsure of the best places to go, please do check out our previous posts below:

• Amazing places in the Philippines
• Provinces of Thailand
• Tourist spots in Serbia

As we always recommend, traveling is always better if you understand everything that is going on around you, which is why learning the basics of the language spoken by the locals is necessary. If you are interested in learning about foreign languages, you better check out the  Ling App  by Simya Solutions.

The Ling App is a unique language learning platform that makes it easy for you to access lesson content for over 60+ languages! Thanks to its innovative features, you can start learning on the go for at least 10 minutes or less! In addition, all the lessons that you can find from the inside are developed in consultation with real native speakers, educators, and language professionals, who truly understand the language learning process.

On top of all that, the Ling App has a very flexible platform which you can access through this website or by downloading it to your mobile device. Given all the good things about it, there’s no surprise why it has attracted thousands of users and was even recognized by the App Store this year! So, what are you waiting for? Do not miss out on this epic application today and download it now for free!

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15 Essential Tips for First-Time International Flyers

If it’s your first time to get on an international flight, you might be feeling worried and stressed. Don’t worry – this is perfectly normal! Flying internationally can be daunting, but as with everything else, it gets easy with once you’re used to it. Here we’ve compiled the best tips for first-time international flyers you should read before your trip!

P.S. Make sure to book your tickets early! You can get cheap flights by booking months ahead or during off-season travel. If you’re willing to travel at night, red-eye flights are also much cheaper compared to regular-hour flights.

Other immigration requirements

2. keep a screenshot of everything, 3. get to the airport early, 4. inform your banks where you are going, 5. pack your essentials in your carry-on, 6. dress comfortably, 7. bring your book/kindle/movie, 8. stay hydrated, 9. choose a good seat, 10. sleep well in flight, 11. be smart in handling conversations, 12. pay attention to arrowheads and signs, 13. check what you can and can’t bring to your destination, 14. plan for leaving the airport after arrival, 15. have fun, 1. prepare your travel documents.

The documents you should bring at the airport are: ID, passport and visa (if required), itinerary, and other pandemic-related paperwork if necessary. A travel wallet comes in handy for organizing and packing your documents in one place.

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Many countries require a passport with 6 months validity. If you’ve had your passport for a while, check that it still passes this requirement. Otherwise, you may need to schedule for a renewal ASAP.

This might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s not uncommon for people to overlook this and only realize they are holding an outdated passport at the airport.

Countries have different visa requirements. Some will require you to get a visa in advance, and some countries offer visa upon arrival.

If you’re living in the Philippines, take note that ASEAN countries are usually visa-free for the first 30 days. Other Asian countries like South Korea and Japan will require you to process your visa weeks in advance.

Many countries require proof of onward or return flight. Some may also ask for proof of hotel booking and itinerary. It’s easy to find this information in tourism websites and even social media.

With the pandemic, some countries have put up additional requirements , such as proof of vaccination and/or declaration via a health application.

Keep a digital copy of your important documents such as passport and visa, so you have a back-up in case your papers get lost. Screenshots of your hotel bookings and itinerary are also helpful in case you find yourself without online connection.

For international flights, you should be at the airport at least 3 hours before your check in. If you’re traveling on holidays and peak season, you may need to arrive at least 4-5 hours earlier because of long queues.

The Philippines immigration is particularly strict on first-timer flyers doing leisure travel, so it’s best to give time allowance in case you are held up in the immigration office.

Tell your banks where you are going (dates and country) to ensure your credit cards and debit cards will still work to get out cash. Finding yourself with declined transactions and no cash in hand can be a hassle.

Your documents, money, and other essentials such as phone, powerbank, and charger should be packed in your carry-on. A set of overnight clothes and toiletries also come in handy in case you get stranded. If you have multiple connections, a pair of extra underwear and socks will help you feel fresh and clean on arrival.

Another thing that you should remember to pack is any necessary medication you might need.

There is no dress code at the airport so you can dress comfortably, but it’s also good sense not to wear anything too revealing, which airport security might find issue with. There had been instances of women wearing small tops that were not allowed to get on the flight.

Bringing a shawl or jacket or dressing in layers are also recommended since most airports are chilly.

There’s a lot of waiting in airports. Having a good book or movie in your phone or laptop makes a lot of difference when you’re waiting at the boarding area and during your flight. Oftentimes, flights get delayed and those extra hours will be more tolerable if you have entertainment at hand.

Bring an empty water bottle with you and refill it inside the airport, so you can avoid expensive water bottles at the airport shops.

It’s best to choose either the window seat or the aisle seat. The middle seat is usually cramped, which can be uncomfortable especially in long flights. Choose the aisle seat if you’re someone who needs to go to the toilet a lot.

If you have pre-booked your seats, make sure they are not located in front of emergency exits because those seats do not recline.

Eye mask, earplugs, and neck pillows are great for sleeping during your flight. Having a neck pillow is particularly useful because it offers support and it prevents your head from flopping around while you sleep.

Be polite with the airport and immigration staff, they can make the airport experience easier or harder for you.

Feel free to make small talk with people; maybe you’ll even meet a new travel acquaintance! But stop talking if they appear disinterested. If the person comes across as suspicious or creepy, be smart — do not answer personal questions, such as where you are staying in your next destination, and firmly cut off the conversation.

If you’re uncomfortable with a fellow passenger and you believe your concerns are right and valid, the flight attendants are your friend. Flag one down and let them know your situation. They may be able to help you find another seat depending on the seat capacity.

On the other hand, it’s equally valid to avoid conversations if you do not want to talk to other people. Keep your headphones on and do your own thing.

International airports can be disorienting. If you’re arriving on a non-English-speaking country, you don’t have to worry. Almost always there are English signs and arrowheads to help you get your bearing. Most are positioned overhead, while some may be obscured behind columns.

If you still get lost, don’t be afraid to approach airport employees for help.

Do your homework and check what items you can and can’t bring to your destination. For instance, Maldives is a popular tropical destination but what most people don’t know is that it’s a Muslim country , so items like alcohol and idols of worship are not allowed into the country. These items will be confiscated and given back on your departure date.

It’s a good idea to be familiar with the various transport services available in the airport so you can get to your hotel or resort. Even if something goes wrong with our pre-arranged pick-up, you know what your options are. Research about the taxi services, public bus routes and schedules, and availability of riding apps such as Grab.

Going on an international flight for the first time can be daunting, but try not to worry too much and don’t forget to enjoy your trip!

That ends our list of essential tips for first-time international flyers! Do you have anything to add? Let us know in the comments section below!

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

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A Guide for First-Time Flyers: What To Expect and How To Prepare

Bradford Cuthrell is a meticulous researcher and writer specializing in pet and home finance topics. He’s surveyed thousands of pet owners and homeowners, listened to hundreds of customer service calls from various home service companies and spoken with dozens of industry experts to understand homeowners’ common pain points and needs.

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Flying can be an intimidating experience, especially for first-time travelers who don’t know what to expect. Coupling the unknown with the prospect of navigating airports, dealing with security, and understanding the logistics of boarding a plane can create anxiety for many. However, with proper preparation and knowledge, your first flight can be a seamless and enjoyable experience.

To help you prepare for your first flight, we will walk you through the entire process — from purchasing your airline tickets to navigating the airport and boarding the plane. We will also cover travel insurance , in-flight etiquette, how to claim baggage and address common concerns to help you feel fully prepared.

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Preparing For Your First Flight

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to know the basics of how to book a flight and what to be aware of when setting out to travel. Here are some essential steps to help you start your planning.

Booking Your Flight

Conducting thorough research before booking can help you save time and money. We recommend using Google Flights, Expedia, or other airline aggregators to easily compare flights and track prices over time. This can help you locate the best deals.

Additionally, many flight aggregators include specific requirements for each airline regarding checked baggage allowances, which can help you understand baggage weight limits and packing restrictions ahead of time. This can save you from unexpected hassles (or costs) at the airport.

Preparing Your Documents

For a seamless travel experience, it is important to have your documents in order before you go. You will have to carry an acceptable form of identification to corroborate the name on your airline ticket. It is also advisable to download the mobile app for the airline you are flying with to ensure you have all of your ticket and travel information readily accessible.

Consider Travel Insurance

Purchasing travel insurance can help protect you financially if your flight is unexpectedly canceled, delayed or interrupted due to reasons outside your control. A travel insurance policy also offers coverage if your baggage is lost, stolen or damaged. We suggest learning more about travel insurance to decide if investing in a policy is worth it before your trip.

What To Expect at the Airport

From the moment you step into the terminal, the airport experience can be both exciting and potentially overwhelming. Navigating the intricacies of air travel requires a foundational knowledge of what to expect. We will guide you through the typical processes from arriving on time to navigating security, boarding and getting settled on your flight.

Getting To the Airport

Here are a few tips to help you have a smooth, stress-free preflight process:

• Getting to the airport: The best time to arrive at the airport depends on the airport’s size, time of day, and whether it’s a domestic or international flight. For domestic flights, it is generally recommended to arrive at least one and a half to two hours before your scheduled flight. For international flights, aim to arrive a minimum of three hours before your scheduled departure. This extra time allows for check-ins, security delays and any other unexpected hiccups. During peak travel times or if you are traveling with special considerations, it can be helpful to arrive even earlier.
• Checking in: The flight check-in process may vary depending on your airline. You may be able to use a mobile-friendly kiosk to save time by checking yourself in, or you can visit the airline’s customer service counter for a more personalized experience. In some cases, you may have to visit the counter regardless.
• Baggage: It is important to be proactive about your luggage and familiarize yourself with the airline’s baggage policies and size requirements. Be sure to properly tag any checked bags with your name and contact information, and allow extra time to navigate baggage during the check-in process. If you are opting for a carry-on bag, check with the airline regarding size requirements so your items fit in the airplane’s overhead bins.

Tips for Navigating Security

Approaching airport security or the Transport Security Administration (TSA) may induce a sense of panic, but it can be a straightforward experience with the proper mindset and preparation. Use these tips to enhance the efficiency of your security experience and prevent delays. 

• Getting through TSA: Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with the TSA screening process by visiting the agency’s official website . By understanding procedures in advance, you can speed up your journey through security with added peace of mind.
• Ask for help if needed: If it is your first time, or you are feeling nervous, inform the TSA representative as they are there to assist you and can provide necessary accommodations or guidance. Open communication can create a positive, more pleasant security screening experience for all involved.

Getting To Your Gate

Navigating the airport can feel like a daunting task, but locating your gate and making it to your flight on time does not have to be stressful. Here are several tips to help you get where you need to go:

• Finding your gate: There are monitors placed in helpful locations at every airport that display flight and gate data. To find your gate, search for your flight number or airline, destination and time of departure to figure out which gate you need to go to. You are also welcome to ask any ticketing desk for assistance in reading or locating your gate number.
• Boarding call: When the time comes to board, you’ll receive verbal instructions over the announcement system from airline staff. You will also receive notifications on your phone if you have the airline’s mobile app. Boarding procedures typically follow a group system with priority options for business class, family boarding, and active duty or retired military members. It’s important to stay near your gate near boarding time to prevent you from missing your flight.
• Watch for flight delays: Depending on the weather and when the inbound plane arrives, your flight may be delayed . If this is the case, stay in touch with your airline for updates regarding your new departure time and any other changes. In most cases, you can track flight arrivals in real-time using the airline’s mobile app so you don’t need to leave for the airport before it’s necessary. Flight delays may be more common during the holiday season or other peak travel times.

What To Expect During Your Flight

Here’s what you can expect during the actual flight, from boarding to in-flight travel and exiting the plane after landing.

Boarding and In-Flight Experience

Before you take off, familiarize yourself with what to expect during the boarding and in-flight experience for a more comfortable, and expected journey.

• Stowing carry-ons : Carry-on items are stowed in overhead bins while you can typically keep personal items like backpacks or purses beneath the seat in front of you. However, your airline may have specific requirements for stowing carry-ons and personal items.
• Bathrooms: All airplanes should have at least one restroom. If you need to go, wait for the unoccupied light signaling availability then make your way to the facilities. Once done, return promptly to your seat and buckle your seatbelt.
• Motion sickness: Some people are more susceptible than others to motion sickness. If you are worried about your first flight, you can talk to your doctor about prescription medication. However, Dr. Jay Buckey, the Director of the Space Medicine Innovations Laboratory at Dartmouth, recommends you try the medication at home to see how it makes you feel, as many motion sickness medications have sedative effects. This way you know in advance how it will impact your travel experience.
• Flight attendants: Flight attendants will be present throughout your journey to provide you with assistance as needed. They also direct food and beverage service during the flight and are dedicated to your comfort while en route.
• Turbulence : It is common to experience turbulence or the irregular and unpredictable flow of air currents that can cause jostling movements in the aircraft. If this happens, stay calm and keep your seat belt securely fastened until the pilot announces otherwise.
• Arrival: Upon arrival at your destination, listen and follow the instructions provided to you by your flight crew for the next steps. Make your way out of your seat and to the designated area to leave the plane. Be sure to remove any of your items in the overhead bins before you exit the aircraft.

Tips for Making Connecting Flights

For a seamless experience when making connecting flights, here’s what you need to know in advance:

• Layovers: When selecting flights, consider layover lengths based on your travel needs. Being mindful of factors, including airport size, security procedures and the possible distances between gates, can help reduce stressful layovers.
• Recharge: You can leverage layovers as an opportunity to eat, relax and recharge any technology devices you are traveling with. Take the time to eat a meal, charge electronics and find a spot to relax before the next leg of your trip.
• Be prepared: When making connecting flights, frequently check in on your next flight to stay informed about any updates or gate changes. This can help you navigate your layover more smoothly when arriving at your next gate.

Post-Flight and Arrival

For first-time flyers, it can be helpful to know what to expect once your flights are complete and you’ve arrived at your final destination. 

• Deplaning: After the flight, follow the instructions provided by your flight crew and proceed to exit the airplane. Be sure to listen to any announcements and follow directions toward the designated exit.
• Baggage claim: If you checked luggage, after your flight, you can head to the baggage claim to collect your belongings. Look for screens displaying information about your flight to identify the correct carousel. Once you have the chance to collect your checked bags, it’s time to leave the airport.  
• Exiting the airport: With your luggage in hand, it’s finally time to leave the airport. Note that if you are flying internationally, you will have to complete customs procedures before exiting the airport. If you’ve arranged for a rideshare service or other transportation method, look for the designated pickup locations for your ride and follow any instructions provided by the service.

How To Manage First-Time Jitters

Your first flight, or the anticipation of it, may induce some nervous jitters or anxiety. We spoke with several health experts to help you create a more comfortable mindset and manage any stress and anxiety while flying. Here are a few tactics to consider when you fly.

Preparing for Your Flight

As we discussed above, arrive early to allow for extra time to navigate the process.

Also, it can help to avoid caffeine or alcohol before your first flight as these substances can increase feelings of nervousness and make it harder to relax. Dr. Tom Stoffregen, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Minnesota, recommends eating bland foods and limiting yourself to clear liquids.

Bring Distractions

You can keep your personal items tucked into your carry-on bag for quick access. Essentials such as tissues, medicine and other comforting items can ensure you feel prepared and supported.

You can also bring handy distractions such as a book, magazines or calming music to divert your attention during takeoff, turbulence or landing. If you start to feel anxiety, Dr. Stroffregen suggests reclining your seat, using your headrest, and listening to music or an audiobook to self-soothe.

Dr. Bethany Teachman, a professor and the Director of Clinical Training at the University of Virginia’s Psychology Department, added, “One of the best strategies is to remind yourself that anxiety is a normal reaction, and it may be uncomfortable, but it is not dangerous.”

How To Manage Anxiety On-Board

If you start to feel anxious while in flight, deep breathing exercises can calm your nervous system. If it makes you feel more comfortable, spend a little time researching the basics of how plans operate to demystify the flying experience.

“People tend to be afraid of situations that feel unpredictable or uncontrollable,” Dr. Teachman added. “Flying is a good example of that because most of us don’t fully understand the mechanisms of flying and we are trusting our safety to the pilots and others. Also, many people don’t fly often, so they don’t have regular opportunities to get used to it.”

Dr. Kate Wolitzy-Taylor, Associate Director of the Anxiety and Depression Research Center and an associate professor in the UCLA Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, believes it’s helpful to speak positively to yourself to decrease the stress response. “Show yourself that even if you feel physically very anxious, nothing bad is actually happening to you — you are safe but just feeling unpleasant body sensations.”

“Doing anything for the first time can be exciting but can also bring on some nerves,” she added. “Try to frame it like you would anything else that you’re doing for the first time. Remember, flying is very safe. Walk onto that plane like you are excited and confident.”

The Bottom Line

Being proactive and prepared is key to a positive travel experience for first-time flyers. By prioritizing preparation, understanding what to expect, arriving early and seeking assistance when needed, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Our Experts

• Dr. Tom Stoffregen , Ph.D., earned his bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College in 1979 and his Ph.D. from Cornell University in 1984. Currently, he is a professor of kinesiology at the University of Minnesota, where he is also a fellow of the National Academy of Kinesiology. With 35 years of experience, his research focuses on motion sickness, seasickness and cyber sickness. He receives research funding from the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and the European Commission. Stoffregen has published over 150 articles and has been featured in interviews by prominent media outlets like The New York Times , The Wall Street Journal , Fox Business Network and others.
• Jay C. Buckey Jr , MD, is the Director of the Space Medicine Innovations Laboratory at Dartmouth and an adjunct professor at the Thayer School of Engineering. He holds a doctor of medicine degree from Cornell University where his research interests encompass bubble detection and sizing, aerospace medicine, motion sickness, technology and energy policy.
• Kate Wolitzky-Taylor , Ph.D., is the Associate Director of the Anxiety and Depression Research Center (ADRC) and an Associate Professor at the UCLA Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences. She obtained her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. Serving as the Director of Clinical Services for the Depression Grand Challenge Innovative Treatment Network, she treats patients with anxiety and related disorders in the UCLA Faculty Practice Outpatient Clinic and in Behavioral Health Services.
• Bethany Teachman , Ph.D., is a professor and the Director of Clinical Training at the University of Virginia in the Department of Psychology. With a focus on biased thinking contributing to psychopathology, especially anxiety disorders, she earned her Ph.D. from Yale University and her bachelor’s from the University of British Columbia. She has continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health and private foundations, with over 250 publications, including books on clinical psychology. Dr. Teachman directs public websites like MindTrails and Project Implicit Health, offering digital interventions and assessments related to mental and physical health topics. She has received several awards, including the American Psychological Association Distinguished Scientific Early Career Award and is a Fellow of multiple associations. She currently serves on the Board of the Society for Digital Mental Health and was the inaugural Chair of the Coalition for the Advancement and Application of Psychological Science.

Protect Your Trip »

What to do if your flight is canceled.

Follow these steps in the event your flight is canceled.

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Getty Images

Key Takeaways

• If your flight has been canceled, you are entitled to a full cash refund per federal law.
• Using the airline's app or calling an international airline number is often the quickest way to get help.
• The DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard shows what each major domestic airline will or will not provide in the event of a cancellation or delay.

If your flight has been canceled, read on for step-by-step instructions on how to rearrange your travel plans and/or claim compensation.

What to do if your flight is canceled

1. get on the airline's app – or make an international call.

First, pull up the airline's app on your phone. Most airline apps allow you to easily rebook your flight for free, provided you can supply your six-character reservation code. Getting in line to speak with an agent and calling the airline while you wait is also a good idea (albeit slower than using an app), and social media messaging, texting or WhatsApp may prove helpful. "During times of mass travel disruption, you should try all different avenues for getting help," says Nick Ewen, director of content at The Points Guy.

Ewen also recommends a lesser-known tactic: calling the airline's international numbers. Airlines have offices in Canada, Mexico, the U.K. and more. "While it can be costly, you can often get through to an agent more quickly," Ewen says.

Note that, depending on why your flight was canceled, finding seats on a new flight may alter your travel plans considerably.

2. Book a hotel

Next, determine if you need overnight accommodations. "If you were originally booked on the last flight of the night and there are no other options, grab a hotel room near the airport before they're all taken," Ewen advises.

3. Ask for a refund

If the airline cancels your flight or it's "significantly delayed" (a term currently defined on a case-by-case basis) and you're forced to change your travel plans, the Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide a full refund. Unfortunately, getting a refund can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Most airlines will instead offer a credit for future travel, but be wary of these, since they often come with limitations such as blackout and expiration dates.

When you're able to get a refund, note that it covers the total cost of airfare only and does not include other expenses associated with your trip.

If you believe you're entitled to a refund and the airline denies it to you, you can and should file a complaint with the DOT .

4. Reference the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard

While you're entitled to a full refund, other flight cancellation policies may vary by airline. Go to the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard to see what each major airline will and will not offer in the event of a controllable cancellation.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

What to do if your flight is delayed

In the event your flight is delayed, airlines are not legally obligated to give you a refund unless the DOT determines the delay to be "significant." But here's what you can do:

Research other flights

Investigate what other flights on that airline are headed to your destination and ask an agent if they can get you on one of them (without charging change fees). Also be sure to look into what's available on other airlines: If your original airline doesn't have any flights available on your departure date, an agent may be able to book you on a flight with a different carrier at no additional cost to you. Note, however, that airlines are not legally required to do this.

Inquire about other compensation

If you've been stranded at the airport for several hours, check in with an agent and reference the Commitments for Controllable Delays section on the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard – regardless of whether you're able to get on another flight. Some airlines may provide amenities such as vouchers for meals or overnight accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

"The main causes for flight disruptions are bad weather, understaffed air traffic control, and factors within the airline’s control,"  says Katy Nastro, a spokesperson at Going.com, formerly Scott's Cheap Flights. She explains the following:

• Weather:  This is outside of the airline's control and is the single biggest reason for why we see flight disruptions. We saw this play out over the winter holidays in 2022, and even to some extent during the 2023 holiday season. Even if the weather is accurately predicted, it cannot be controlled, which means at times flight disruptions are unavoidable.
• Understaffed air traffic control:  The U.S. air travel industry has made strides in pilot hiring year over year, but when it comes to air traffic control, we are still down roughly 1,000 fewer air traffic controllers from a decade ago. New York metro area airports specifically have felt the brunt of this deficit, so much so that airlines were permitted to reduce schedules without penalty from the summer until the end of Q4 in 2023. At its lowest, the decrease in flights in the New York metro area resulted in about 11% fewer flights per day. With less trained staff, current air traffic controllers are stretched to the limit, and schedule reductions only temporarily solve this problem. Even with aggressive hiring efforts, training takes time and will not be a quick fix.

It's almost impossible to avoid canceled or delayed flights these days. But there are a few things you can do when booking flights to lessen your chances for travel disruptions.

Keep tabs on your aircraft: On your departure date, check your flight information before heading to the airport. You can keep a watchful eye on the flight's status – including the aircraft scheduled to operate your flight – using the airline's app or a third-party app such as FlightAware Flight Tracker (which also offers a website ), FlightRadar24 or TripIt Pro.

"As an example, if you're flying from Orlando to New York, and your plane is flying in from Chicago, the initial flight from Chicago to Orlando might be delayed (or canceled) before yours is," Ewen explains. "Airlines will try to find replacement aircraft in that case, but if you can identify a potential cancellation before it officially happens, you may be able to get rebooked ahead of the other 100-plus passengers on your flight."

Consider an alternate airport: When booking your flight, you may consider flying out of a different airport than the one you typically depart from. For example, a small regional airport with limited routes may mean less travel delays and hassle overall – or it may be worth driving further to another international airport for a nonstop flight to your destination rather than opting for a connecting flight close to home.

Fly in the morning: While flight disruptions are unpredictable, historically fewer cancellations and delays occur in the morning.

Avoid weekend travel: Fly on off-peak days like Tuesday or Wednesday. You'll often find cheaper flights on these days, too.

Opt for longer layovers: If you need to take more than one flight to reach your destination, book a flight with a longer layover to provide enough time to make your connecting flight. Keep in mind that at some airports you may need to go through security or customs for your connection. For longer journeys, you can reduce the risk of missing connecting flights by planning a city stopover. For example, Icelandair offers Iceland stopovers for no additional airfare.

Consider a credit card with travel protections: You don't need to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of credit card travel protections and perks. Here are a couple options to consider:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred :  This travel credit card ($95 annually) provides coverage for delays and cancellations when used to book flights. It also provides other travel protections such as delayed baggage coverage. "Even someone who travels just once or twice a year can still get phenomenal value from this card," Ewen says.
• American Express Platinum Card :  This card ($695 annually) offers travel insurance that reimburses some nonrefundable expenses like hotel accommodations, meals and other essentials as long as the trip was purchased using the card.

When choosing a travel credit card, you should also pay attention to other benefits. Even the most basic airline credit cards can offer travel perks like discounts on in-flight purchases and waived baggage fees, while premium travel credit cards (which require a higher annual fee) can include access to an airport lounge with food, drinks and Wi-Fi. Some also provide a concierge service to rebook flights or built-in trip insurance to cover unforeseen expenses.

Purchase travel insurance: If your credit card doesn't include travel protections, consider purchasing insurance with flight coverages – even a cheap travel policy can help protect your investment. Covered reasons include a travel carrier delay and loss or theft of travel documents, among other scenarios. If you're interested in purchasing a policy, you can browse the best travel insurance companies here .

Talk to a travel advisor: "Booking directly with your travel advisor provides more leverage and support if something goes wrong," explains Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer . "We can advocate for a better outcome should there be cancellations or hiccups in the itinerary."

Charlotte French, owner of Cavatica Luxury Travel , agrees, sharing this recent example: "My clients were booked on a nonstop United Flight from Tokyo (HND) to EWR (Newark) in business class, when it was canceled (due to technical issues). The clients were waiting in line to find other options for their return flight home; however, these were very limited. In parallel, I was able to speak to the United Airlines corporate desk (as a travel advisor) and was able to secure them in business class on a flight out of Tokyo the same day."

Avoid checking luggage: Travelers who only travel with a carry-on bag and/or personal item (such as a backpack or purse) that meet carry-on size restrictions will have the most flexibility in rebooking – and will also avoid the chance of lost luggage, another common issue. Some carriers will try to move checked luggage to a later flight for you and will make every effort to keep you and your belongings together. However, when airlines don't have interline agreements with other carriers, you'll have to allow enough time to retrieve and recheck your own luggage.

The number of canceled flights recently fell to its lowest rate in at least a decade — a welcome change for air travelers, especially following COVID-19-era travel disruptions.

Still, flight cancellations will always be inevitable, especially during the busy summer travel season. Summer 2024 is shaping up to be especially busy. "It was the busiest March on record for air travel according to the TSA," explains Nastro. "It also had the tenth busiest day on record, which is pretty significant since it is not a 'peak period' and is generally considered off-season in the Northern Hemisphere. If this trend continues, we are likely in for the busiest summer on record when it comes to air travel."

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Luggage Trackers
• Is a Travel Agent Worth It? The Pros and Cons
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seatbelt Extender?
• How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The world's first doggy jet service will cost you $6K for a one-way ticket

Dogs will soon be able to experience their own “ fur st” class flight with the launch of the world’s first jet charter company specifically designed for man’s best friend. 

BARK, the dog toy company that coordinates the popular treat subscription BarkBox, is partnering with a jet charter service to take away the challenges of long-distance traveling with dogs, according to a press release. BARK Air, as the company calls it, offers the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Taking dogs on airplanes is, typically, a stressful endeavor with different airlines having different policies for pet travel. For example, American Airlines allows small dogs in a carrier to be placed under the seat in front, but larger dogs are put in the cargo space, which has been found to be stressful for the pet. For United Airlines , pets can fly in the cabin if there’s enough space, but they must fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, in a statement. 

First-time Fido's taking to the sky? Here are tips from my flight with a dog

Learn more: Best travel insurance

However, you’ll need to pay a hefty fee for the dog-friendly flight. For now, a ticket for just one dog and one human will run you at least $6,000 one way. 

The first BARK Air flights will take off on May 23, and so far, there are only two flight routes available, both from New York’s Westchester County Airport. From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, it’ll cost $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport will cost $6,000 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase on April 11.

Not only does BARK Air allow dogs, it also focuses on the furry friends by treating them like VIPs, the press release said. BARK Air passengers can skip TSA checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process where they can meet the other dogs on the flight and the humans are served a meal cooked by on-site chefs. 

When boarding, a BARK Air concierge is on-hand to ensure the dogs are socializing and adjusting to the environment well. 

Each flight will undergo “Dogs Fly First” flight prep that includes “calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer.” To make the flying experience easier and more enjoyable, dogs have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

During takeoff and descent, dogs are given a beverage of their choice to help their ears adjust to cabin pressurization. Of course, there will be plenty of treats on the flight.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

I flew in business class for the first time. It cost $6,000 and was the best flight of my life, but I wouldn't do it again for 5 reasons.

Posted: March 25, 2024 | Last updated: March 26, 2024

• I took a 12-hour, business-class flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand.
• Air New Zealand's business-class seats on this route typically cost $6,000.
• It was the most luxurious flight of my life, but I can't justify paying that much anytime soon.

Every time I book a flight, I eye the first-class and business-class seats. 

The extra space, the delicious food , and the endless bubbly seem like pure luxury. Just as I'm tempted to turn my daydream into reality and switch from economy class to first , my brain reminds me that I don't have an endless budget.

Things changed during the summer of 2021 when Air New Zealand invited me to its headquarters to cover the airline's redesigned cabins . For the 12-hour flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, I'd sit in business class for the first time . 

It was easily the most glamorous ride of my entire life, and I disembarked knowing that I likely wouldn't do it again anytime soon.

Minutes after settling into business class on an Air New Zealand flight, I had the realization that this plane ride was going to be unlike any other flight I'd taken.

Before I found seat 1A on the Boeing 787-9 aircraft, I was already being treated like royalty. 

One flight attendant was pouring me a glass of sparkling wine. Another one was helping lift my carry-on bag into the overhead bins . A third soon followed to introduce herself and welcome me on the Air New Zealand flight. 

If those first few minutes were any indicator of the rest of my ride, I knew I was in for a glamorous time. 

I also knew that business-class passengers around me had likely dropped around $6,000 for their one-way ticket, according to Air New Zealand's website . Round-trip tickets are often priced closer to $10,000. 

Before this flight, I'd never spent more than $1,400 on a plane ticket. Most vacations involve free campsites and nights spent in a $20 tent I bought off Facebook Marketplace. 

I was appreciative of the indulgent flight — years later, I'm still thinking about the chocolate tart served for dessert. But even after all the perks, I'm convinced flying business class isn't worth the splurge. 

Every expectation of business class was met, but I'd ultimately never shell out $10,000 for a round-trip ticket. It's not like the plane will get there faster than it would if I were sitting in coach.

Every part of the 12-hour flight was filled with luxury .

I was handed a warm towel before a three-course dinner. I received a turndown service, and flight attendants converted my seat into a lie-flat bed. I slept better than I had on any flight and woke up to a fruit smoothie and warm coffee.

Even with those perks, it was hard to ignore the fact that the flight was the same 12 hours as it was in coach. 

No amount of wine could distract me from the fact that I was still confined to a tight space. No number of free toiletries could make me ignore the fact that I was about to spend days jet-lagged. 

Ultimately, I would feel cramped and jet-lagged whether I sat in the front or the back of the plane for 12 hours.

Now if my business-class ticket came with turbo speed that could transport me to New Zealand in fewer hours than an economy ticket could, perhaps I'd think twice about the cost. 

For the same price as a round-trip flight, in theory, I could've paid for another three weeks in New Zealand, covered months of rent, or put a down payment on a new car.

When it comes to traveling, I'm typically willing to sacrifice comfort for the experience. For example, I'd much rather pay money to go skydiving or bungee jumping than stay in a five-star hotel .

And $10,000 could fund a lot of life experiences. The cost of my business-class seat on the same route could buy another vacation, pay for multiple months of rent, or be used as a down payment on a new car that could take me on adventures across the US . 

I could also replicate my entire 21-day trip to New Zealand and Australia for less than the cost of a round-trip ticket to New Zealand since the trip cost closer to $9,000. 

While I loved the business-class experience, I'd trade it in a heartbeat to go diving in the Great Barrier Reef again , stay in more magical tiny homes , and continue exploring the two epic countries. 

The flight also taught me that I don't truly embrace the motto: "It's about the journey, not the destination." To me, flights are all about getting from point A to point B.

I've probably reiterated the phrase dozens of times. To a degree, I stand by the concept that life is often about the journey. 

I've embarked on plenty of road trips where the best memories happened in the passenger seat of the car — not the destinations we were driving to. 

But when I look at the highlights of past trips, plane rides never stand out.

I think that's because the entire experience — regardless of your cabin class — still has challenges. Between possible delays, dry air, cabin pressure, limited space, and potential jet lag, I've never been all that eager to board a plane.

I absolutely love the rush when the plane lifts off the ground, and I savor the views and conversations with strangers on each flight.

But the excitement I experience is more about where I'm going. It's not about being cramped on a plane. 

I previously never considered the environmental toll of sitting in business class.

Before my trip, I knew that flying was one of the more carbon-intensive transportation options. Aviation makes up about 2% of global carbon emissions, according to the International Energy Agency .

Two months after my business-class flight, I was chatting with sustainability experts about how to make trips and vacations more sustainable . They told me that a large part of a vacation's carbon footprint will likely come from the flight, and if I do need to fly to my destination, it's more responsible to sit in economy class. 

That's because a business-class seat takes up significantly more space on a plane. This means that fewer passengers can fit onto the aircraft and, therefore, there's a larger carbon footprint.

For example, a business-class row of seats on Air New Zealand's Boeing 787-9 fits three people. Meanwhile, a row in economy on the same plane fits nine passengers. Those nine people have a much smaller personal carbon footprint than the three sitting in business class. 

As someone who never had the chance to sit in premium economy, much less business class, before this trip, I hadn't considered the different carbon footprints each cabin class has on planes.

As I continue searching for more sustainable ways to travel, like train travel, I'm also booking economy for future flights.

I am privileged to be able to sit in an economy cabin as an able-bodied person, and I plan to do so for as long as possible.

I'm young and able-bodied. And while sitting in economy is never a blast, especially on long-haul flights, I am fortunate that I can. Planes aren't designed for everyone.

As BuzzFeed reported, flying as a plus-sized passenger is both stigmatized and challenging. Some airlines like Southwest at one point had "customer of size" policies that stated passengers "who are unable to lower both armrests when seated should book another seat because of complaints."

As Business Insider previously reported, a Qatar Airways passenger said she was denied boarding and asked to buy a first-class ticket because of her size. 

It's not just plus-sized passengers who face flying struggles. Planes are not often a comfortable experience for many people with disabilities. Rebekah Taussig, a wheelchair user, wrote for Time that "flying has always felt disempowering." And a survey by Disability Horizons reported that 43% of surveyed wheelchair users who've attempted to fly now avoid it. 

Flying — especially in economy class — isn't something everyone has the privilege to do. I'm fortunate that I can fit into and relax in an economy seat on a long-haul flight. For me, wanting the luxury of a business-class seat doesn't seem necessary at this point in my life. 

Ultimately, I'm at a point in my life where every dollar and every day of exploring matters to me. For now, I'll skip paying for a business-class seat.

There are a few circumstances where I'd consider splurging on a premium-economy ticket, such as a monumental birthday trip or a honeymoon. But I can't envision an instance where I would pay $10,000 for a regular long-haul, business-class flight.

From the environmental toll to extra time in a destination, I would rather use that money elsewhere, and I plan to stick with economy class for future flights. 

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1) I've heard about open-jaw flying to save back-track time but would like to know your experience and advice about price difference and flight and transfer time.

a) fly in Venice, out of Rome

b) fly in Rome, then, Naples, Florence, CT, Venice, Milan , then fly home

2) I've also read about a good suggestion: fly round-trip San Francisco (or San Jose) - Rome, immediately train to Naples, then the tour, at the end, spend the time in Rome before flying home. The sequence could be, I think, Naples, Florence, Cinque Terre and then Venice, Rome.

3) Is there any other web site I should search beside Google flights ?

Really appreciate your advice.

Thanks so much

7 replies to this topic

Can try http://www.skyscanner.com I usually end up booking my flights directly with the airline . For Italy we used American Airlines. Buffalo-Philly-Venice. Rome-Charlotte-Buffalo.

Quick train schedules:

https://int.bahn.de/en

https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html

https://www.italotreno.it/en 

https://www.cinqueterre.com/

https://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php

Monterosso: http://tinyurl.com/54rmsvnx

Trip report: http://tinyurl.com/vsxz4y9v

Riomaggiore: http://tinyurl.com/48rvv8ak

Trip reports: http://tinyurl.com/34uba6ks

http://tinyurl.com/menfzkcc

Manarola: http://tinyurl.com/4fwfaf4t

Trip report: https://tinyurl.com/2s4yazzy

https://cruisedig.com/ports/la-spezia-italy/arrivals

http://www.napoliunplugged.com

So, now I can plan for itinerary:

10/3: arrive in Venice 12:20pm

10/4,5,6: in Venice

10/7: train to Florence

10/8,9,10: in Florence with 1 day trip to Siena

10/11: train to Pisa , store luggage for the day's visit then go on to CT

10/12,13 : in CT, or should stay here for 3 days?

10/14: train CT to Orvieto

10/15: in Orvieto

10/16,17,18,19: Rome

10/20: train to Naples

10/21,22: in Naples with 1 day trip to Pompei

10/24/ fly home at 12:35 pm

I'm having 1 extra day, should I spend it in Orvieto to relax in the small hill town of Orvieto or in Naples?

Really appreciate your feedbacks.

Thanks so much.

By the way, all regional trains buy paper tickets, as e-tickets require internet connectivity for confirmation in advance. These trains have no discounts nor seat assignments and don’t sell out.

To see the Veiled Christ at the Capella Sanservo in Naples a reservation is required. Look it up—how this was carved from a block of marble is unbelievable, given the apparent transparency. Favorite restaurant Amici Miei. Favorite church in Italy the Chiesa Gesu Nuovo [nice walk from the Capella]. Naples is our favorite large city in Italy; visited thrice yearly.

Ideally, I'd like to stay overnight at a small hill town in the Tuscany area. Do you think this is doable?

Right now I'm setting 2 full days for CT, not counting packing/unpacking, do I need 1 more day?

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BarkBox’s next big delivery: Charter flights for dogs

Starting in may, bark air will fly dogs and their owners from new york to l.a. or london.

BarkBox, the service that assembles and ships care packages for dogs to millions of subscribers each month, is expanding into a new market: pet-friendly charter flights. This spring, the company will begin transporting dogs (and their owners) on private planes via Bark Air.

Starting on May 23, Bark Air will fly weekly between Westchester County Airport in White Plains, N.Y., and Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles. The following week, it will kick off bimonthly service between Westchester and London Stansted Airport. Reservations at dogsflyfirst.com will go live Thursday, on National Pet Day. The one-way cross-country flight costs $6,000 for one dog and one owner; the transatlantic flight goes for $8,000.

By comparison, for the same date as the launch, nonstop air on a major carrier starts at $220 one way from New York to Los Angeles and from $525 to London. Adding a dog would cost more.

Bark chief executive and co-founder Matt Meeker said the inspiration for Bark Air came from his Great Dane. Hugo visited nearly two dozen states and Canada during his 12-year lifetime, but he never pranced around the West Coast or Europe because of the challenges of flying pets, especially of his size.

Options are limited for pets too large for the cabin. Depending on the season, destination and airline, owners can transport their dogs as checked luggage or cargo, an arrangement that comes with risks. According to Transportation Department data, U.S. carriers reported nine incidents involving animals, including seven deaths, in 2022. (The agency has not published its annual 2023 numbers for these incidents).

To understand the experience of traveling as baggage, Meeker packed himself into a crate and was rolled across the tarmac and loaded onto a plane, where he stayed in his enclosure for 45 minutes to an hour. His experiment confirmed his suspicions: Flying in the belly of a plane can be traumatizing.

“It was very cramped, very dark. Loud noises. Disorienting. No food or water. Nowhere to go to the bathroom,” said Meeker. “It was very, very terrible.”

Moneyed travelers can book a private or charter plane. However, noncommercial air can be prohibitively expensive or unpredictable. K9 Jets , a private charter operator that started offering pet-friendly flights last year, flies to 13 destinations, including Dallas, Paris and West Palm Beach, Fla. It has similar prices to BarkAir — $6,650 from New Jersey to Los Angeles — but will cancel the flight if it is not at least 75 percent full.

“There’s a huge amount of interest and demand, and really frustration,” Meeker said. “People are looking for a reasonable solution to transport their dog if they’re moving or taking a summer vacation or weekend trip.”

Meeker said the company partnered with Talon Air , a New York-based charter company that will fly two Gulfstream G550s under the Bark Air banner. The plane can accommodate 14 passengers, but the company will cap the number at 10.

After the traveler books the flight, a concierge will contact the family to learn about the dog’s temperament and to help with logistics, including the documents required to enter England. The fare includes complimentary car service within a 30-mile radius of the arrival destination.

Meeker recommends passengers arrive 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Guests will wait in a private area inside the terminal, where a chef will prepare a hot meal for the human travelers to avoid any in-flight tray-table surfing. Before boarding, the dogs will have a chance to sniff each other out.

Onboard, pets can fly without a leash as long as they behave. During a test run, Meeker said the dogs were very courteous, with no unruly outbursts.

“They would say hello to the other dogs and say hello to the other people. Everyone was very calm about it,” he said. “For dogs who were a little more nervous, or people who were more nervous for their dogs, we have a place on the plane for them to sit without anyone bothering them.”

Since the pups are the top dogs onboard, the carrier will cater to their tastes. The menu will feature “Doggie Champagne” (actually chicken broth), doughnuts made for dogs and meaty snacks served on a silver tray. The flight crew will include professionals trained in veterinary care and dog behavior. At the end of the trip, the four-legged fliers will earn their wings, which they can proudly pin to their collar or harness.

If Bark Air does well, Meeker hopes to add larger planes to the fleet, which could help lower the fare. He also dreams of building the world’s first in-flight dog park.

“The dogs for those longer journeys will have a park where they can play with other dogs while their humans enjoy a drink at the bar around the edge of the park,” he said.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst with the Atmosphere Research Group, said pet airlines are more apt to fail than succeed. (RIP, Pet Airways.) However, Bark Air has a few advantages. It is not building an airline from scratch. It has brand recognition. And it oversees a mailing list with the names of millions of pet lovers willing to drop a small fortune on their pooches.

“Some people will absolutely do this,” Harteveldt said. “The question is: Will there be a enough people who love their pets enough to pay $6,000 or more to transport them coast-to-coast or from New York to London?”

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Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.