Guide for First-Time Flyers
Flying for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with a little preparation and the right information, you’ll be navigating airports like a pro in no time! This guide breaks down the process step-by-step, covering everything from booking your flight to exiting the airport. Let’s dive in!
Before You Fly
1. Booking Your Flight
Your flying experience begins with booking your ticket. Here are key things to keep in mind:
Name Match: Make sure the name on your ticket matches your government-issued ID *exactly.* Airlines enforce this strictly.
Layovers vs. Direct Flights: Pay attention to whether your flight is direct or has layovers. For layovers, double-check the connecting times and airports.
Fare Types: Many airlines now offer discounted fares such as “Basic Economy” or “Saver Fares.” These often come with restrictions—like no carry-on bags or pre-assigned seating. Check the details carefully to avoid surprises!
2. Packing Smart
Packing efficiently and adhering to airline regulations can save you from unnecessary stress.
Luggage Size and Weight: Check your airline’s size and weight limits for both carry-on and checked bags. These details are typically on their website or your booking confirmation.
Carry-On Rules: Most airlines allow:
One small bag (like a backpack or purse) that fits under the seat.
One larger carry-on that fits in the overhead compartment.
*If you’re flying on a Basic Economy ticket, you may only bring the small bag.
Checked Luggage: If you need more room, you can check a bag for a fee (usually $25–$50 per bag, per flight). At the airport, drop it off at your airline’s counter before heading to security.
Liquid Restrictions: TSA requires liquids in carry-on bags must be less than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. Larger liquids can go in checked luggage.
*Don’t forget: water bottles must be empty when going through security. You can refill them after you go through security!
3. Checking in for Your Flight
Your “boarding pass” is your ticket to board the plane. You can check in for your flight starting 24 hours before departure. Here’s how:
Visit your airline’s website or app.
Enter your booking confirmation number and name.
Confirm your seat selection, baggage details, and safety acknowledgments.
Save your boarding pass digitally or print it out.
Pro Tip: Checking in early can secure better boarding positions and overhead bin space, especially for airlines like Southwest that don’t assign seats. We always recommend flyers book a window seat so you can take in the views!
Day of Travel
1. Arriving at the Airport
Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic travel and 3 hours for international flights. This allows time for:
Checking bags
Going through security
Finding your gate
Grabbing snacks or using the restroom
2. Navigating Security
Security checks can be intimidating for first-timers. Knowing the process helps!
ID and Boarding Pass: Have these ready for the TSA agent.
Liquid and Electronics: Remove your liquids bag and laptops from your carry-on for separate screening. Make sure your water bottles are empty!
Shoes and Belts: Remove shoes, belts, jackets, and large accessories to place in the bins provided.
3. Terminals and Gates
Your gate is where your flight will depart from.
After security, locate your gate by checking your boarding pass or airport screens showing flight information. Gates are usually marked with a letter and number, like “A17.”
*Tip: Gates can change, so listen for announcements or check screens frequently.
4. Boarding the Plane
Boarding typically starts 30 minutes before departure. Airlines organize boarding by zones or numbers, which will be listed on your boarding pass. When it’s your turn:
Line up to have your boarding pass scanned
Find your seat on the plane by the number and letter, like “23B”
Place larger bags in the overhead bin and smaller ones under the seat in front of you
During the Flight
1. Takeoff and Landing
Before takeoff, make sure your phone and all wireless devices are in airplane mode. They must stay in airplane mode for the whole flight!
During takeoff and landing, your seat will need to be upright and your tray table will need to be stowed.
Pro tip: You may feel some pressure in your ears during takeoff and landing, that’s totally normal! Chewing gum, yawning, or swallowing can help.
2. In-Flight Comfort
Once the plane is in the air:
You can get up if you need to go to the bathroom, but always keep your seatbelt fastened when seated.
On most airlines, flight attendants will offer complimentary drinks and snacks. Additional food or alcoholic beverages may be available for purchase.
Take in the view—clouds from above are breathtaking!
Pro tip: There may be some turbulence while you’re in the air. It can be scary, but you’re safe! Just take a deep breath and relax.
Arriving at Your Destination
1. Deboarding the Plane
Stay seated until it’s your row’s turn to exit. Once the plane is at the gate, passengers deboard in order, starting from the front row and working towards the back.
2. Navigating the Arrival Airport
After exiting the gate:
Follow signs for baggage claim or ground transportation. If you checked luggage, that’s where you’ll pick it up. That’s also where the airport exit will be.
When you get to baggage claim, there will be screens that show which carousel your plane’s bags have gone to. Monitor the carousel for your bag, ensuring it’s yours before leaving (a lot of bags can look alike!).
Look for signs for taxis, public transport, or rideshare pickups like Uber or Lyft.
Pro tip: Many airports have great public transportation options to get you into town. This can usually be much more affordable than taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft!
Flying for the first time is an exciting milestone. It can feel overwhelming, but by preparing ahead of time and following this guide, you’ll feel confident and ready for your journey.
Bon voyage!
