Air travel doesn’t have to be stressful
Not everyone loves air travel like I do, but while you may not love it, it doesn’t have to be stressful either.
If you’re preparing for your first flight, the thought of air travel can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. From packing to navigating airports, air travel can seem overwhelming for first-time flyers, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to board your first flight smoothly and stress-free.
1. Booking Flights
The journey begins with booking your ticket:
- Know the airlines
Say I want to fly nonstop from Singapore to Melbourne, Australia in October 2024. On one hand, there is Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) like Scoot, and on the other hand, there are Full Service Carriers (FSCs) from the origin and/or destination countries like Singapore Airlines and Qantas. In fact there’s even further selection as Turkish Airlines, and Emirates (of United Arab Emirates) also operate this route. - Full Service Carriers (FSCs) vs Low Cost Carriers (LCCs)
LCCs offer cheaper fares by charging for extras like luggage and meals, while FSCs typically include those amenities in the ticket price, providing more comfort and convenience. LCCs are ideal for budget-conscious travelers, while FSCs are better for longer, more comfortable trips. In recent years, FSCs have started charging for extras similar to LCCs, so do be aware. - Choose the right airline
Not all airlines are created equal, and the experience can vary significantly even across FSCs. Research to find one that fits your budget and comfort needs. Remember, more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better. Some LCCs (and even increasingly some FSCs) charge extras like checked luggage and seat selection, so watch for hidden fees before booking. - Book in advance
Rarely do people buy tickets on the day of flight so buying in advance is key. How far in advance? Well, airfares fluctuate but it generally gets more expensive as departure date approaches. Use comparison tools like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to find the best prices. - Direct vs. connecting flights
Direct flights are more convenient, but they often cost more. If you’re on a budget, you might consider flights with connections. Just make sure you allow enough time, at least 2-3 hours, between flights for layovers. Some airlines even offer free stopover package when booking connecting flights, which lets you explore the connecting city/country.
2. Preparing for Your Trip
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth journey:
- Download airline’s app
Many airlines let you manage your booking, check in online, choose seats, and download your boarding pass in the airline’s app. This can help you stay up to date on schedule changes before the trip, and save you time at the airport and help you avoid lines at the check-in desk. - Travel documents and visa requirements
Make sure your passport (if flying internationally) is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Double-check your latest flight itinerary, and print it out or save it on your phone. For international trips, make sure you know the visa requirements of your destination country. Some countries allow visa-free entry, some offer visas on arrival, while others require an advance visa application. - Packing liquids and electronics
In your carry-on, liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, and all liquids must fit into a single quart-sized bag. Electronics, like laptops or tablets, need to be removed during security screening, so keep them accessible.
3. Navigating the Airport
- Arrive early
For domestic flights, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights, plan for 3 hours. This gives you time to check in, go through security, and relax before boarding. - Check in
Depending on your airline, you can check in online 24 hours (or even 48 hours) before departure. If not, you can do it at the airport either through a self-service kiosk or at the airline’s counter. You’ll need to show your passport (for international flights) or a government-issued ID (for domestic flights). - Security screening
Be ready to remove your shoes, belts, and jackets for the security check. Place your electronics and liquids in separate bins, and make sure you don’t have any prohibited items (like sharp objects or large containers of liquids). - Check the departure boards
After security, check the airport’s departure boards to confirm your gate number and any potential flight delays. Gates can sometimes change, so it’s a good idea to check again closer to your boarding time. Note the boarding time, rather than the departure time, and get to your gate early.
4. Boarding your flight
- Know your boarding group/zones
Boarding is usually done in groups or zones, which will be printed on your boarding pass. Listen for announcements and board when your group is called. - Have your boarding pass ready
The airline staff will scan your boarding pass and verify your ID (for international flights). - Find your seat
Once on the plane, find your seat by matching the row number and letter to your boarding pass. If you have carry-on luggage, store it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
5. During the flight
You’re all settled in—now what? Here’s what to expect:
- Safety briefing
Pay attention to the safety demonstration before takeoff. It’s important to know how to use your seatbelt, oxygen mask, and life jacket in case of an emergency, as well as where the nearest emergency exits are, which may be behind you. - In-flight entertainment
Many airlines offer movies, TV shows, or Wi-Fi during the flight. Bring headphones or earbuds to use with the entertainment system. - Stay comfortable
On long-haul flights, try to get up and stretch every few hours to improve circulation. Stay hydrated by drinking water (airplane cabins can be very dry), and try to rest or sleep if you’re on an overnight flight. If you get hungry on long haul flights, snacks may be available on request. - Arrival preparation
Most flights begin descending 30 to 40 minutes before landing, and shortly after, the seat belt sign will turn on for landing. Lavatories (plane toilets) tend to get crowded right after meal service, so try to use them beforehand. Ensure any bags taken out of the overhead bins are stowed away, and pack your belongings before the seat belt sign comes on for landing.
6. Arrival and Collecting Luggage
Once you land, follow the signs for “Baggage Claim” to retrieve your checked luggage.
- Customs and immigration
For international flights, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration before collecting your luggage. Have your passport and any necessary travel documents ready for inspection. - Baggage claim
Check the baggage carousel number for your flight on the airport screens. Wait for your luggage and double-check the baggage tag to make sure it’s yours.
7. Tips for a Stress-Free First Flight
- Stay calm
Flying, especially for the first time, can feel overwhelming, but everything is well organized. If you’re unsure about anything, ask airport or airline staff—they’re there to help. - Be patient
Air travel can involve long lines and waiting periods, so bring something to pass the time, like a book, podcast, or downloaded movie. - Travel insurance
Many credit cards come with travel insurance that covers flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, so take note of what is and isn’t covered. For peace of mind, also consider purchasing travel insurance.
Conclusion
Air travel doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little preparation, you’ll be navigating airports and enjoying your flight like a frequent flyer in no time. By following these simple tips, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling calm, confident, and ready to explore!