If you think flying is stressful, you’re not alone. And if you’re booking your first flight, you may have a few concerns. These traveling tips for first-time flyers can help ease the tension so you can start your trip stress-free!
Prepare At Home
Preparation for a stress-free trip to the airport starts at home. Take time to weigh your bags, then check what’s allowed on your airline. Otherwise, you may have to pay an extra fee. As you take care of your checked baggage, make sure it’s easy to identify. You could tie a ribbon on it so you can easily identify it at the baggage claim. You should also list your name and contact information on the luggage tag.
Before leaving for your trip, check in online and obtain your boarding pass. Throughout the day or night before you leave, keep an eye on your flight status in case it gets delayed.
Schedule Enough Time
Get to the airport as early as possible. Most travelers give themselves a two-hour buffer so they can get through security and find their gate without rushing and feeling stressed. And as a first-time flyer, you’ll want time to check in and take care of your baggage without unnecessary anxiety.
While you’re waiting to board the plane, find something to take your mind off things. Many airports offer free Wi-Fi, but consider data security before joining a network—cellular data is more secure than Wi-Fi hotspots. And when you’re flying for the first time, the last thing you want is more stress, so remain mindful if you use free internet.
Understand Airport Procedures
Before departure day, you may want to investigate the airport procedures so you can move through the place with ease. Even the most seasoned travelers understand the hassle of airport security, but you can move through quickly by preparing for it. Keep in mind that:
You’ll need your boarding pass and ID out and ready.
They’ll ask you to remove electrons from carry-on bags.
You can’t take water through security.
By knowing this and everything else expected by TSA and your airline, you prevent unwanted surprises. If you have toiletries in your carry-on luggage, then keep them in a separate bag so you can easily pull them out for security checkpoints.
Keep Yourself Comfortable
Flying can be stressful, even to seasoned travelers, so keep yourself comfortable throughout the voyage. Dress in something comfortable. It’s a good idea to have layers since the plane may get cold. Likewise, pack a snack or two in case you get hungry, and remember to buy some water after getting through security.
And in the event that you get nervous, another traveling tip for first-time flyers is to try deep breathing. Most everyone feels nervous when they fly for the first time. Keep yourself entertained by listening to your favorite music or reading a book. When you take your mind off the anxiety of travel, it’s easier to feel excited about the trip.
Comments