No More Airport Anxiety: 15 Tips for First-Time Flyers

It is normal to be slightly nervous on your first flight, but do not get anxious! With preparation, flying will be effortless and a joy. If you are traveling within your home country or to another continent, these 15 tips will make your flight comfortable and fun.

Let us talk about all of the things you want to learn prior to getting onto an airplane for the very first time!

Book a Particular Seat Before You Take Flight

As you book your flight online, you usually can pick where in the airplane you wish to sit. It is referred to as “book a seat.” Some people want to sit over the window because they can watch what is out the window. Some people would prefer to sit by the aisle because they need to stretch and move without disrupting other passengers.

If you do not reserve your seat, you may end up seated where you do not want to be. Imagine being seated between two unknown people in the middle!

So, make an effort to reserve your preferred seat when purchasing your ticket. Most airlines accommodate that for free, though some other airlines will charge a little more. But we assure you—it is all worth it!

Download the Airline’s App

One of the simplest things that you can do is get the airline’s app for the airline that you are flying. You can download it from the App Store (if you own an iPhone) or Google Play Store (if you own an Android). These apps are useful! They will tell you whether your flight is boarding, whether your gate has been switched, or whether your plane has a delay.

You can even check in on the app and have your boarding pass on your phone. So you do not have to carry a ticket. Some of the apps also allow you to track your luggage and choose your seat. It may save time and make you feel like you are in command.

Know the Airline Baggage Policy

Not all airlines will accept the same type of bag. Some will let you bring it on board, but some will charge for it. Look on the airline’s website before you pack to see how large and how heavy bags can be.

Don’t forget liquids as well. There’s no big bottle of shampoo that you can bring in a carry-on. All liquids need to be contained in 3.4-ounce (100 ml) or smaller portions and held in one-quart plastic bags. That is the “3-1-1 rule” and will leave you more rapidly at airport security.

Place Key Items in Your Carry-On

Your carry-on is the little bag you bring with you onto the plane. Place your essentials in it at all times. They are your passport or ID, your phone, a charger, and any medication you may need to take.

Also, bring entertaining stuff to do on the plane, such as books, headphones, or a coloring book. You can also bring snacks, gum, or a neck pillow. Just ensure that it all fits and is airplane-friendly. In the unlikely event that your big suitcase gets lost or delayed, then you will at least have what you need with you.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Don’t be delayed! Airports are crazy, and you have lots to do before getting on the airplane. For local flights in your native country, try to arrive at least 2 hours before the flight leaves. For flights to other countries, arrive 3 hours beforehand.

This gives you time to search your bag, get through security, locate your gate, and even get a bite to eat.

Understand How Your Phone Plan Works

If you are traveling abroad, check your phone plan. Calling your phone abroad without a good plan will cost you a fortune! Some phone companies have plans where you can use your phone abroad at a low rate. Others have plans where you can purchase a temporary traveling plan.

You can wait too until you arrive and use the airport or hotel’s free Wi-Fi. You can purchase a SIM card abroad, too. Ask your parents or look up the website of your phone company before you go.

Measure Your Carry-On and Your Liquids

Ensure your carry-on is not larger than the size limit. Some airlines check your bag at the gate if it is too large, and you will be charged extra. This is frustrating if your valuable items are in the bag.

Don’t forget our 3-1-1 liquid rule we discussed above. Don’t pack large containers of lotion or juice in your carry-on. Place them in your checked bag or leave them behind.

Be Considerate to Those Around You

When you are flying, you will be pretty close to people. Be considerate. Don’t talk too loudly, kick the seat ahead of you, or take up too much space.

If you need to recline your seat, be mindful so the person behind you will not have dinner or is doing work on a laptop. In case you bump into someone by accident or need to stand up a lot of times, you can just smile and say sorry using the words “Excuse me” or “Sorry.” Proper manners will take you far!

Pack Snacks and Something to Do

Some flights offer snacks and a beverage, but not all—especially if it’s a low-cost or short one. It is worth bringing your own. Granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit are good things to bring.

Bring something that will make you happy too! Load up movies, music, or games onto your phone or tablet at home. The in-flight entertainment system on the plane won’t be available—or perhaps won’t have anything worthwhile.

Have Your ID Handy

You will have to present your ID or passport a couple of times before boarding the plane. Keep it in an accessible location, such as a travel wallet or the front pocket of your backpack.

Don’t stash it at the bottom of your bag. If security personnel or flight attendants request it, you don’t want to have to dig through it and delay everyone!

Be Prepared for Delays

Flights never work out. They get delayed or canceled sometimes. If it does, do not lose your mind—just prepare ahead.

Have your airline’s number or app ready in case you need to book a new one. Pack a portable charger and some extra food. If your flight is canceled, you’re entitled to a refund or to book a new one.

Some websites and apps will even refund you for delays. Research those before you go.

Remain Calm if Something Goes Amiss

If something does go amiss, such as your bag has gone missing or your seat has been double-booked, remain calm. Panicking will not help—and most issues can be resolved.

Be polite when speaking to the airline personnel and inquire how you can be assisted. Breathe and recall that other people also have issues. You will be better and solve the issue earlier if you do not become angry.

Dress Comfortably and Wear Layers

Planes can be hot one minute and freezing the next. Dress in comfortable clothing that makes it easy to get around. A sweatshirt, stretchy pants, and a pair of sneakers are perfect. Avoid tight jeans and scratchy clothing!

Pack a sweater or jacket in case you get chilly on the plane. And don’t forget—slip-on shoes will be your greatest asset at security, where you will have to remove them in a flash.

Attempt to Acclimatize to the New Time Zone

Jet lag is what you have when you travel to an area where there is another time zone. Your body is under the impression that it is morning, but it is actually evening!

To recover faster, set your watch or phone to the new time zone when you board the plane. Sleep or remain awake by that time. Drink plenty of water and do not consume soda and coffee too!. The earlier you adapt, the better your vacation will be.

Notify Your Bank That You are Going

If going abroad, let your bank know that you’re going. If they notice charges in a foreign country, they may assume that your card is stolen and freeze it.

They all allow you to put a “travel alert” on your account through the internet or an app. It tells the bank not to freeze your account when yo a’re shopping abroad. That way, you won’t be left with no cash in hand when you are abroad!

Final Thoughts

Your maiden flight is an experience! Yes, it is slightly scary to begin with, but with some helpful tips, it can also be exciting, fuzzy, and cozy. Remember, hundreds of people fly daily—and now you’ll be one of the crew!

Take these 15 simple steps to be ready, calm, and ready to fly. If you are flying to visit family, travel overseas, or just go on vacation, these simple steps will make your flight smooth and enjoyable. Bon voyage, and all the best for your first flight!