Flying For The First Time? Don’t Be AFRAID! Here’s What You NEED To Know
Congrats, you booked your very first flight! If you’re feeling a bit nervous or unsure about what to expect, don’t worry – we’ve got you! ✈️ #FirstTimeFlyingTips #TravelSmarter #EnjoyYourFlight
Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota – Congratulations, you’ve taken the plunge and booked your very first flight! There’s nothing quite as exciting as the anticipation of soaring through the sky to a new destination. But if you’re feeling a bit nervous or unsure about what to expect, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Follow these handy tips and your first flying experience will be a breeze.
Choose Your Seat Wisely
When it comes to seat selection, it pays to plan ahead. Nobody likes being stuck in a cramped middle seat, so be sure to choose your preferred window or aisle spot when booking your ticket. Consult your airline’s website or use a site like SeatGuru to scope out the best seats on your plane. For extra assurance, sign up for alerts from ExpertFlyer to snag your ideal seat if it opens up.
Don’t Worry, Get Appy!
Bypass the long check-in lines at the airport by downloading your airline’s app ahead of time. You can check in, access your boarding pass, and track any flight changes right from your phone. Many carriers even let you stream in-flight entertainment through the app. It’s like having a personal travel assistant in your pocket!
Protect Yourself
We all hope for smooth sailing when we travel, but sometimes the unexpected happens. That’s where travel insurance comes in handy. It can reimburse you for things like flight delays, cancelled trips, lost luggage, and overseas medical emergencies. Check if your credit card offers any built-in protections too. Having that safety net can give you valuable peace of mind.
Pack Like a Pro
Here’s a little secret: you don’t need to bring your entire closet on vacation. Packing light is the way to go, especially if you can fit everything into a carry-on bag. Not only will you avoid luggage fees and potential lost bag hassles, but you’ll speed through the airport like a seasoned traveler. Just be sure to check your airline’s size restrictions and pack liquids in the proper containers.
Double Check the Details
Traveling across time zones or between countries takes some extra preparation. Review your full itinerary closely, confirming key details like:
- Departure and arrival airports (Heathrow vs Gatwick, JFK vs Newark)
- Layover lengths and locations (which time zone is that 4 hour connection in?)
- Passenger name spellings on tickets and IDs
A little double-checking goes a long way in avoiding mixups. Verify hotel bookings, tour reservations, and transportation plans too while you’re at it.
Get There Early
The last thing you want is to be rushing up to your gate in a stressed out sweat. Give yourself ample time by arriving 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours prior to an international one. People call us crazy, but that’s what my hubby Jack and I always do – and we’ve traveled the world many times over. Holidays and peak travel times may require even more of a buffer. You can get through the airport faster by checking in online, carrying on your bag, having your documents ready, and using expedited security lines like PreCheck if you qualify.
Be a Respectful Seatmate
Planes are shared spaces, so being mindful of your fellow passengers makes the journey more pleasant for everyone. Wear headphones when listening to anything with sound. Avoid bringing smelly food or wearing strong fragrances. Stay in your assigned seat. Basically, follow the Golden Rule of treating others how you’d like to be treated. Your considerate behavior will be appreciated.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule
Traveling across time zones? Get a jump start on overcoming jet lag by adapting your sleep to your destination’s schedule. Set your watch to the new time and try to sleep accordingly on the plane. Chug plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can disrupt your slumber at high altitudes. Letting your body clock adjust ASAP will help you feel energized and ready to enjoy your trip when you land.
Have a Backup Plan
In-flight entertainment is a great way to pass the time, but it’s not always a sure thing. Check your plane’s amenities in advance, and bring your own books, games, or downloaded content just in case. Pack your chargers and headphones in your carry-on for easy access too. And don’t forget some snacks! Bringing your own is much cheaper and healthier than relying on limited airport options.
Above All, Don’t Panic
Even with the best laid plans, travel hiccups can still happen. Lost tickets, reservation snafus, missed connections – they’re all par for the course. The key is to not let them ruffle your feathers. Take a deep breath, stay calm, and work with airline or hotel staff to find a solution. By going with the flow, you’ll minimize stress and might even gain a good story to laugh about later.
With a little savvy and preparation, your first flight will be an enjoyable start to many exciting travel adventures ahead. The sky’s the limit! Happy travels… have fun!
🗣 Is this your first time flying? Or are you an ol’ pro? Have any tips you’d like to share? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
