
6 min read
Packing, airport security, international connections — taking your first flight can be nerve-wracking. In this post, we’ll discuss travel tips for first-time flyers anxious about their upcoming trip. From navigating airports to planning a layover, we’ve got you covered.
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It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time flier — a trip to the airport can be stressful. Here are some basic tips that should make the process a little easier, no matter how experienced you are.
It might be tempting to show up right before your gate closes, but this can cause unnecessary stress. What if your Uber hits traffic or your luggage gets pulled aside for extra security checks? Showing up two hours before international flights gives you flexibility in case something unexpected happens. At the same time, there's no need to get there too early. Getting to the airport more than two hours before your flight means you'll have to wait around much longer than necessary.
The check-in process can be a drag if you do it at the airport on the day. Do you really want to stand in a line, glancing at your watch every few minutes? Most airlines now allow you to check in online at least 24 hours before departure, which can save you time and reduce your stress before the flight. Take advantage of this feature and get your boarding pass as soon as possible.
To avoid unexpected fees and delays at the check-in counter, weigh your bags at home. Different airlines have different weight limits for cabin and hold luggage, and exceeding them can cost you extra. If you weigh your bags, you'll know exactly how much you can pack and you won't need to worry about nasty surprises at the airport.
Airport security is strict when it comes to your cabin bag (and what goes inside it). For example, liquids over 100ml have to go in your checked luggage or be left at home. If you show up at airport security with a liquid exceeding that limit, you'll need to chuck it. To make things easier for yourself, pour your liquids into clear 100ml bottles and put them all in one transparent ziplock bag.
If you're flying internationally, your usual mobile carrier might not work in the new country. Data roaming gets expensive fast, so plan ahead. You could get a prepaid SIM card for your destination or just set up an eSIM beforehand. An eSIM app lets you use a local provider when you arrive.
If it’s your first time flying, you might feel anxious or uncertain about what to expect. That's totally normal! Airplanes and airports can be overwhelming, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some things to think about when you’re getting ready for your first flight.
International airports can often be big and difficult to navigate. Before you arrive, look up a map of the airport (they’re almost always available online) and study the layout. Familiarize yourself with the location of the check-in desks, baggage drop, and departure gates. Having a sense of the building's layout will let you feel more in control and make getting lost less likely.
Nervous about flying, cramped spaces, or both? An aisle seat is probably a good choice. You'll have more legroom and easier access to the bathroom (just remember to stay seated until the seat belt sign is off). If turbulence is a worry, try to get a seat close to the wings, because that area of the plane will shake less. Avoid the rear of the plane if you're sensitive to loud noises — the rumbling of the engine is usually more intense there.
Comfort is a priority when flying, especially on long flights. Go for relaxed, loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t restrict movement. Lots of people wear sweatpants or leggings when flying so you won’t look out of place. Pack a neck pillow and a padded eye mask to help you sleep and block out bright lights. Remember, your goal is to make the flight as relaxing as possible.
A lot of people get dehydrated when flying, causing headaches and fatigue. Bring an empty water bottle through security and refill it once you're past the checkpoint. Most airports have water fountains, but you can also ask a cafe or restaurant to fill your bottle for you. Staying hydrated will help you get more comfortable and relaxed and lower the chances of muscle cramps.
During your flight, you probably won’t have access to the internet, since most airplanes don’t have Wi-Fi. Some planes do have in-flight entertainment, but not all. Download movies, TV shows, podcasts, and audiobooks to your devices ahead of time. These distractions can make your flight feel faster and more fun and keep your mind off any nerves you’re feeling.
Flying can feel, and sound, pretty weird. When the plane takes off, its acceleration pushes you back into your seat. During the flight, you can encounter turbulence, which causes bumps and tremors. That’s all completely normal! Tens of thousands of flights operate smoothly every day, and on each of those flights, people are experiencing the same things you are.
Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of flying if you don’t know what to bring. Follow these packing tips to make the process a little easier and get you ready for your first flight.
Even if your checked luggage can hold everything you need, always pack a small cabin bag with essential items. In the rare event that your checked bag gets lost or delayed, you'll be glad you have important items like a change of clothes, medication, and some entertainment in your cabin bag. In most cases, bringing a cabin bag with you doesn’t cost anything extra.
Each airline has its own baggage size and weight restrictions for hold and cabin bags. Make sure you’ve read up on these rules before you start packing. Doing so means you can avoid unexpected fees or delays on the day. Once again, weigh your bags as you pack them.
One of the most common mistakes made by first-time flyers is packing liquids improperly. Remember that any liquids in your cabin bag must be in 100ml containers (or less). This rule applies to drinks, of course, but also to sprays, lotions, and gels. If you’re unsure whether something is considered a liquid, it’s best to leave it out of your cabin bag. Bigger bottles of liquid can be packed in your checked luggage with no issue.
The more you know about your destination, the more effectively you can pack. Research the weather, religious and cultural customs, and the activities you plan to do there. If you're traveling for a tropical getaway, for example, pack sunscreen and insect repellent and leave the snowshoes at home. Understanding what to expect means you won’t be wasting space packing things you don’t need.
It’s natural to feel nervous before your first flight. A lot of first-time flyers get anxious, but there are practical steps you can take to stay calm and comfortable. Beat the pre-flight (and in-flight) jitters with these tips!
Breathing deeply and regularly will slow your heart rate and make you feel calmer. Focus on your breath and try to take long, steady inhales and exhales. Counting your breaths will keep your mind occupied and stop negative thoughts from taking over. These kinds of exercises have been proven to reduce stress and are the basis for many types of meditation.
Close your eyes and picture a peaceful place, like a quiet beach or a garden. Imagine the sights, sounds, and smells of that place in detail, reconstructing each element as if you’re really experiencing it. This technique can be calming, but it also gives you something to think about other than the flight itself.
Caffeine can increase anxiety and dehydration, so it’s best to avoid coffee and energy drinks before your flight. Try drinking water or herbal tea to stay hydrated instead. You might feel a little sleepy without your morning coffee, but that just means you’ll have an easier time napping on the plane!
If breathing exercises or visualizations aren’t enough to calm your nerves, consider packing distractions. Books, movies, games, or podcasts can all keep your mind occupied during the flight. The more engaged you are with something else, the less you’ll focus on the anxiety of flying. Your devices will all be set to airplane mode while you’re in the air, but if you download digital content in advance, you’ll still be able to enjoy it.
The cabin crew are there to help you and they’ll have experience with nervous flyers. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about how you’re feeling. They can offer reassurance and provide tips to make you feel more comfortable. There’s absolutely no need to go through your flight without support from others.
If you're feeling nervous about the process of flying itself, try watching videos from pilots' cockpits online. Crew members post clips on social media showing what it's like to fly from their perspectives, and some will answer questions in their comments. Seeing calm professionals doing their jobs can make flying seem safer and more normal.
Flying alone for the first time can be intimidating, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you ace your solo flying experience.
If you’re flying alone, try to find direct flights whenever possible. Layovers and connecting flights might add unnecessary stress, especially if you're navigating airports for the first time. Direct flights minimize the chances of delays and help you get to your destination faster. Just bear in mind that they usually cost a bit more.
Airport staff are there to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions or advice. Flight attendants and airport personnel are always happy to assist passengers, and even the staff in stores and cafes can help sometimes.
As with almost everything, planning ahead is a good idea. Make sure you know your flight details, connection times, and any other relevant info before you leave home. Check the airport layout, review airline guidelines, and double-check that you’ve packed documents like your boarding pass and passport. The more organized you are, the less stressed you’ll feel during your journey.
No matter how well you plan, you might encounter unexpected situations like layovers, stopovers, or tight connections. Here’s how to navigate some of the more complicated parts of flying.
A layover is a break between flights, usually lasting a few hours. Stopovers are usually longer, involving more than 24 hours. If you have a stopover, you might want to leave the airport to explore the area. A lot of airports are well-connected to nearby cities, so you might have time to take a quick sightseeing trip. Just give yourself enough time to get back to the airport and go through security before your next flight.
A connection is a changeover between flights during your journey. You land in an airport, get on a different plane, and continue your journey. If you have a tight connection, plan ahead by reviewing the airport layout. If you miss a connection because of flight delays, don’t panic — many airlines rebook you onto the next flight automatically. That said, it’s a good idea to visit a customer service desk to confirm your new flight details.
An open-jaw trip involves flying from one airport to another and returning home from a third. For example, you could fly from New York to Rome, then travel by train from Rome to Milan for your return flight. It demands a bit more planning, but an open-jaw flight usually means cheaper flights so it can be very worthwhile.
Before you head to the airport for your flight, use this checklist to make sure you're fully prepared. You can also read the official checklist from the TSA for further details.
Double-check the flight details: time, destination, airline number, seating position, and allowed baggage.
Ensure you have the necessary documents, like a valid passport, visa information, and your boarding pass (if you checked in early).
Make sure that your liquids are either stored in your hold luggage or in 100ml bottles in your carry-on bag.
Arrange transportation to the airport in advance. If you’re driving, give yourself time to beat the traffic.
Arrive at the airport early (at least 1 hour if you’re going for a domestic flight and 2 hours for international flights).
If you haven’t checked in in advance, do so using a self-service kiosk or at the counter where you drop off checked luggage.
Go through security screening with your cabin bags.
Find your gate and confirm the boarding time.
Make sure you have an internet connection set up for when you arrive at your new destination — the simplest option is to download an eSIM app before you leave.
Setting up an eSIM before you go is a great idea. An eSIM app lets you access local mobile networks, so you can stay connected to the internet abroad. You’ll be able to check flight times, arrange transport, and use translation apps as soon as you arrive in a new location.
Saily’s data plans are affordable and flexible and cover 190 destinations. The app will help you stay online throughout your trip, so you can search for the best dining spots, keep an eye on the weather, and send pics to the folks back home.
Stay connected with the Saily eSIM app
Affordable mobile data plans for every journey.
Malcolm loves food almost as much as he does traveling. From haggis in the hills of Scotland to roadside Kosovan pastries, his taste for adventure keeps him moving. But finding the best dining spot in a new locale is a lot easier when you can get online anywhere, anytime — that’s where his eSIM data plan comes in handy.