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9 Important Tips for First Time Flyers to Know

Tips for First Time Flyers
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If you’ve never flown before but are soon to plan a trip that will require you to board a flight, here are vital tips for first-time flyers you can use. These tips will come in handy even if you’re wondering how to on a domestic flight for the first time and not just for international travel. Therefore, be assured that flying for the first time alone need not be a stressful thing. Once you check out our list of the top tips for first time flyers, you can get a first-time flyers checklist ready.

Set your fears aside and follow use our top tips for first-time flyers with anxiety. These are the best tips for first-time flyers internationally traveling and otherwise.

Tips for Those Flying for the First Time Alone:

When you’re flying for the first time nervousness is expected. But worry not. Just follow our simple but essential tips for first-time flyers and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the experience.

  1. Get travel documents ready

Once you’ve dealt with how to book cheap flights, this is the next important step. These is among the most vital tips to ensure your first-time flight experience is a pleasant one. Without the necessary travel documents, you won’t be allowed to board the flight. Make sure you’ve got your passport (if you need one for this trip) and other TSA-approved travel documents in hand. Do ensure to keep copies of these as well just in case you misplace something important.

  1. Take care of baggage concerns

Make sure to check the baggage policy of the airline you’re booking flights with. Find out what you will be charged for your checked baggage, the permitted size and weight of the luggage, and other important things. One of the most useful baggage tips for first-time flyers is to pack just a carry-on. This is especially helpful if you’re about to make an emergency trip on a last-minute flight. Just pack the essentials and you can buy anything else you need at your intended destination.

  1. Arrive as early as you can at the airport

This is one of the best tips for first-time flyers, especially for those hit with the first-time flying what to expect at the airport query. Generally, it’s best to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours ahead of departure time. But it’s also a good idea to clock in a bit earlier especially if the airport is a big one. It can be harrowing to get through the entire check-in process. Arrive early and do this in peace instead of coming at the last moment and hurrying through everything.

  1. Head to the airline desk

The first thing you must do when you arrive at the airport is to go over to your airline’s check-in desk. These is among the most important tips for first-time flyers you must keep in mind. Show your travel tickets, passport, and other travel documents here to confirm your seat on the airplane. Once the documentation is in order, you can also check your baggage here and get any other last-minute flight updates.

  1. Work your way through security patiently

Getting through airport security can be a bit of a hassle even for seasoned flyers. Those traveling on First or Business class flights will have it easier owing to expedited check-in. But for those about to board the economy, this is the one place you will need some patience. Follow the instructions passed to you by the security agents and you should be fine. Once done, do ensure you haven’t left anything behind.

  1. Move on to the boarding gate

Your ticket will more often than not have the boarding gate number on it. However, one of the top tips for first time flyers is to check the departures monitor for any boarding changes. If you’re having trouble following the signs meant to lead you to the assigned gate, you can also stop and ask an airport employee for assistance. Once at the gate, have a seat until the agent at the gate calls out for the group number that’s on your ticket to the board next.

  1. Board the airplane carefully

Boarding the airplane with caution is among the top tips for first-time flyers. When the gate agent calls your group to board, check if you have all your belongings with you before proceeding to board. Once on board, check the row and seat number above (or on the armrest) and find your assigned seat. Stow away your carry-on carefully either under the seat in front of you or in the overhead storage bin.

  1. Inflight entertainment

This is one of the best tips for first-time flyers with anxiety – open to inflight entertainment. The type of entertainment you enjoy on the airplane will depend on the travel class you’re in. You will have your own entertainment system if you’re flying luxury class. Many airlines will offer inflight magazines, podcasts, music choices, and movies as well among other things. However, it’s best to bring along your own entertainment such as a book, laptop, music, movies, etc. It’s also a good idea to carry noise-canceling earphones and a sleep mask to help you rest if it’s a long-haul flight.

  1. Food and drinks on the flight

Once on the flight, you will be offered food, snacks, and drinks depending on the type of travel class you’re in. Most of it will be free if you’ve paid for it while booking your ticket from USA to India or elsewhere. It will also be free if you’re traveling in First or Business class. Else, you will have to pay for whatever you wish to have. One of the best tips for first time flyers to keep in mind is that generally, cash isn’t accepted as payment so keep a credit card in hand.

First Time Flyers Checklist

If you are flying for the first time, there are some factors that you should be familiar with. The first time flyer tip includes the checklist of the most basic things such as:

  • Identity Card (ID Card)
  • Hard Copy/ Soft Copy of the Ticket
  • Boarding Pass
  • Online check-in 24 hours before reaching the airport
  • Get the Foreign Currency (If necessary)
  • Dress in comfortable clothes
  • Put your mobile phone on airplane mode in the plane
  • Stay hydrated and enjoy the flight

Not-to-do Tips for First Time Flyers

  • Don’t forget to pack your travel essentials
  • Never overpack your bag
  • Don’t wear uncomfortable/ bulky clothes
  • Never forget to keep your headphones
  • Don’t pack large liquids in your bag
  • Never forget to check your passport expiration date

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What do first time flyers need to know?

Answer: The first time flyers should know these facts:

  • Get ready with your travel documents
  • Be clear with baggage norms
  • Arrive early at the airport
  • Go to the airline’s desk for baggage submission
  • Do security checks with patience 
  • Board the airplane carefully
  1. What should a first time flyer pack?

Answer: First time flyers should pack necessary clothes, comfortable shoes, toiletries, travel pillows, spare batteries, sunglasses, and other essential things.  

  1. Which seat is best for first time flyers?

Answer: First time flyers should choose a window/ aisle seat in the front of the aircraft. 

  1. How do you make a first time flyer calm?

Answer: The best ways to make a first time flyer calm include educating the plane’s functionality, understanding the reason for the panic/anxiety, taking a fear of flying course, getting travel insurance, knowing what the turbulence is, arriving at the airport early, and more.

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