A Quick Guide for First Time Flyers

We all know that flying can be a stressful experience. I'm here to help make your first flight easy and enjoyable with my quick guide for first-time flyers.

In this blog post you'll find information on what to expect on your flight—from airport check-in, security screening, boarding the plane, in-flight service, and more.

Booking your flight

Remember when booking your flight to be frugal, not cheap. It may seem like a good deal to save $140 on that flight, but after you factor in the 12-hour layover and the amount of money you'll spend on food and other goodies during the layover, you may find it's not a great deal after all. Plus, how uncomfortable is a 12-hour layover? Yuck. Not worth $140 after you factor everything in.

Before your flight

Download the airline's app onto your phone so you can keep up to date with gate changes, flight delays, and any other information the airline may need to relay to you about your flight.

Does the hotel you're staying at offer shuttle rides to/from the airport? If so, be sure to call and get details about that ahead of time. How often does the shuttle run? Is it free? Does the shuttle run even in the middle of the night?

Airport check-in

Check-in actually starts before you get there! If you wait until you arrive to check in on the app, depending on the airline, you may get stuck in a seat you really don't want to have to sit in!

Transportation to and from the airport

If you live near the airport, you can have a friend drive you or you can probably catch a rideshare like Uber or Lyft for less than $20.

If you have to park at the airport, it can get expensive. Look for parking around the airport instead. Most parking lots near airports offer free shuttle service, just make sure you factor in extra time as shuttles may only run once or twice per hour – especially if you're flying out of a smaller airport instead of a big city.

Once you get to your destination, find the rideshare or taxi area unless your hotel offers shuttles to and from the airport. The airport should have signs directing you to the loading areas for rideshares, but if you don't see them, ask any airport employee and they will point you in the right direction.

Airport arrival

Arrive at least 2 hours ahead of time for domestic flights, and 3 hours for international. Check your flight's status to see if they delay it before you leave for the airport. If your flight is delayed by 5 hours, for example, you don't need to leave for the airport at the same time as you were planning.

Keep all important documents safe and within your reach, such as your ID, passport, etc. Take a screenshot of your boarding pass, just in case your phone's signal is weak when it's time to board.

Wear comfortable clothes on your flight so you don't have to squirm and be extra uncomfortable on your flight. Breathable clothes that can easily be layered are ideal.

Getting through security

Dealing with airport security can be intimidating, especially if the staff is yelling or unfriendly (it happens). For best results, know the rules ahead of time regarding what you can and can't bring in your carry-on. Your bags may get searched, but most of the time it's painless.

Passing the time

Bring something that helps you pass the time, such as a book, magazine, laptop/iPad/Kindle Fire, just in case there is a long wait, like a layover at an airport or a car ride to your destination city. Do not forget to bring an extra charger for your phone, just in case you lose it or forget it at the airport or hotel.

Boarding your flight

It can be scary walking down the runway to board your first flight. There are sights, sounds, smells, and lots of people… what an opportunity to get overwhelmed! Take it one step at a time and remember, everyone else has been in the same position as you are. They know what it's like to be nervous for their first flight and will be sympathetic.

Possible flight issues

Be prepared for possible issues that can happen on any flight:

Turbulence – this is when the plane ride gets bumpy.
Loud, smelly, or rude passengers – unfortunately, it happens.
Delays in disembarking – you could get stuck on the tarmac for a few hours if there is a traffic jam of planes or inclement weather.

You did it!

Whew! The landing on your first flight is a feeling like no other. When you’re planning your first time flying, it can be a little overwhelming. There are so many things to consider like the possible flight issues or finding a ride from and back to the airport on top of packing for an entire week (or however long) away from home!

With these tips, I hope that this will make traveling less stressful for you as well as help avoid any potential setbacks along the way. Tell me about your first flight in the comments below!

Are you planning on traveling soon and taking your first flight? We have more great travel tips below!