14 Essential Tips For First Time Flyers

Flying for the first time can be intimidating, but be assured, it is also equally exciting. Whether you're taking a fun little trip or moving away for your higher studies, the experience of navigating an airport and getting into a plane for the first time is a significant milestone. To make your journey even smoother and more enjoyable, here are some must-know tips for first-time flyers!

A. Pre Travel

There are certain things you can do before your departure date to make sure your travel goes smoothly. Here are some tips for first-time flyers: 

1. Early Booking = More Control 

Here’s our first advice for first-time flyers: Booking your flight in advance saves you a lot of money and stress! Usually, airlines offer lower prices for tickets purchased months before the departure date. So make sure to book your domestic flights at least 21 days and your international flights at least 90 days before the departure date. Booking your tickets early can also give you a better chance of getting your preferred seat, be it by the window, aisle, or closer to the front.

Pro-tip for first-time flyers: Check for student flight discounts while booking your air tickets from a booking platform so you can save some money! 

2.  Understanding Luggage Allowance

This is one of the most must-know tips for first-time flyers. Every airline has its unique policies and guidelines about luggage handling. These can be based on the size, weight, and how many bags you can bring on the flight. Make sure to read through these guidelines provided by your airline to avoid unexpected additional fees at the airport. 

Usually, most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, e.g. a handbag or laptop bag. Baggage check-ins may incur additional costs, so make sure you check your airline’s website for the specifics.

3. Pack Smarter

Another one of the most important tips for first-time flyers is to pack smarter while travelling. Flights generally have restrictions on liquids. Keeping this in mind while packing your carry-on bag can help you avoid confiscation of your toiletries. Airlines allow liquids only in containers of 100ml or less, and they must also fit into a single quart-sized ziplock bag. So, rather than bringing full-size toiletries like shampoo and deo, buy minis or pack them separately in smaller containers for your use. 

Pack your essentials like medications, your travel documents, including your Visa and Passport, and other valuables in your carry-on. Avoid overpacking for the luggage that is going to be checked in. Remember to leave breather space for souvenirs or other items you might buy during your trip especially if you are going for a vacation. 

Note, if you are moving to a new country and have a lot of luggage to take, it is better to ship your luggage to your destination beforehand. A good luggage shipping service is how you can avoid taking too much luggage on the flight and save a lot of time and money. 

4. Get Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance may not seem like a very important purchase, but this is one the most important advice for first-time flyers; buy insurance! Some of the best travel insurance covers not only your checked-in luggage but also any delays or cancellations, as well as emergencies like natural disasters, medical emergencies, and evacuations. So, make sure to get travel insurance while opting for air travel. 

B. During Departure

On your day of departure, don’t give in to the chaos and anxiety. Follow these tips for first-time flyers to have a smooth and easy journey: 

6. Arrive Early

While discussing tips for first-time flyers, one of the most important advice is to arrive early for your flight. Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours early if it's an international flight. This leaves you with a lot of time for check-in, security screenings, and finding your gate. Airports can be confusing; thus, giving yourself extra time to navigate reduces stress.

7. Have Your Documents Ready

Make sure you have all your important travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), boarding pass, and any other identification, with you. Keeping these documents accessible and readily available is one of the most important advice for first-time flyers since you will need to show them multiple times before boarding. Keeping these documents in your carry-on in an easily reachable place can help you reduce airport anxiety and go through the boarding process easily. 

8. Dress Comfortably

Here’s another advice for first-time flyers: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow for breathing since you might have to walk long distances within the airport. Layer your outfits with comfortable jackets and hoodies since temperatures can vary in different parts of the airport and the plane. Don't wear belts, jewellery, or tall boots that are difficult to remove, as you might need to take them off during your security check.

9. Know the Security Process

Knowing the security process beforehand is great advice for first-time flyers. Security screening is often the part of air travel that causes the most stress and airport anxiety in first-time flyers. 

Be prepared to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket in case they are required during the screening. Place electronics like laptops, chargers, etc., and loose change and liquids in separate bins provided by the security staff. Follow the instructions of the security personnel during the screening. Be patient and courteous for a smoother security process.

10. Know the Boarding Process 

Typically, passengers are boarded in groups based on their seat location and fare class. Listen for announcements or look for your flight information on your boarding pass to know when your board turn is up. 

Pro-tip for first-time flyers: Have your boarding pass and ID readily available to show the gate agent during boarding so it doesn’t get complicated. 

C. During Flight 

After your boarding process is complete, you will board your flight. Here are some pro tips for first-time flyers to follow when you are on the flight: 

11. Find Your Seat Quickly

Once you are on the plane, find your seat as soon as possible and store your carry-on items promptly. The overhead bin for storage of cabin luggage can fill up very quickly, so make sure you place larger items above and place the smaller ones, like a handbag or backpack, under the seat that is in front of you. Identify and remember the location of the nearest exits and review the safety information card.

12. Take Care of Yourself While on the Flight 

Being a first-time flyer may come with a lot of plane anxiety, which may put you into survival mode. This propels many flyers to not take care of themselves during the flight, and in turn, they feel sick by the time they arrive at their destination. Here are some ways you can make sure your flight is comfortable enough and that you don’t leave the flight feeling sick and nauseous: 

Bring snacks

Airlines usually serve snacks on the flight, but one of the best tips for first-time flyers is to bring some of their own so they have something they like as well. 

Stay hydrated

Ask your flight attendant for water at regular intervals. Drink enough water to avoid dehydration while flying at high altitudes. 

Take washroom break

Don’t hold in pee! Flights have well-maintained and clean washrooms. Make sure to use them whenever required so it doesn’t add up to your plane anxiety. 

Move around

If you are flying long distances, make sure you move around in the flight. Take a walk to move your legs during the flight. It is a great tip for first-time flyers if you don’t want to have stiff legs by the time you reach your destination. 

13. Prepare for landing

About half an hour before landing, flight attendants will prepare the cabin for arrival. The preparations include collecting trash, securing the cabin, and instructing everyone to fasten their seat belts. Make sure to follow these instructions and start gathering all your belongings, so you’re ready to disembark promptly.

Pro-tip for first-time flyers: Don’t rush while getting down from the plane after the landing. Wait for your turn and get down with comfort rather than getting into a crowded chaos. 

D. During Arrival 

After the landing, you have to navigate the arrival airport now and leave with your checked-in luggage. Here are some tips for first-time flyers to make the process easier:

14. Navigating the Arrival Airport

After you have landed, follow the airport signs to baggage claim if you checked your luggage. In case of an international arrival, go to the immigration section. Have all your travel documents ready for security inspection. If you’re unfamiliar with the arrival airport, don’t hesitate to ask the airport staff for directions, as they will be happy to help you out. 

15. Arrange for Airport Pick-up 

Another very important piece of advice for first-time flyers is to find their means of travel beforehand. Plan how you will get from the airport to your final destination. Research all the airport transfer options available in advance, be it a taxi, shuttle, public transportation, or a ride-sharing service. Planning ahead of time can reduce stress upon arrival and make things easier for you. 

Travelling through the air for the first time can be a surreal experience, especially when you are on a flight and you look outside to see stretches of soft, fluffy clouds. However, the process can be intimidating and confusing to some. But with the right knowledge and planning, you can overcome the fear and enjoy your ride. Hope these tips for first-time flyers help you reach this amazing milestone of your life with ease. Happy flying!