If you clicked on this article, chances are you are about to experience flying for the first time. So, how do you feel? Nervous? Overwhelmed? Strung-out on expectations? Stop right there. I promise you that flying is not as scary as you think.
First time flyers are understandably worried about what could go wrong and, as a result, allow that fear to make flying seem worse than it really is. As a matter of fact, I was a fearful first time flyer myself. Now? Flying on airplanes to me is part of enjoying the vacation. What is there to not love about having the most beautiful view of earth from inside, statistically speaking, the safest mode of transportation in the world?
Of course, there are a few things to stay on top of to make sure your maiden air voyage goes as seamless as possible. We have compiled 6 essential tips from seasoned travellers especially for you. Take a look at them before you buckle up!
Here are our tips for first time flyers
Tip 1: Check off your itinerary
If you are preparing a special recipe for the very first time, you would check off the ingredients to make sure you get it all right. Once you get the hang of it, you probably would not have the need to have a checklist. In the same way, for your first time flying, you will want to write down everything important and related to your trip to make sure nothing is overlooked until you get the hang of it.
Important things to square away beforehand include confirming your airport name (for cities with multiple airports), double-checking if your passport date is valid, verifying your name is spelt correctly on your plane tickets and visa, and confirming your hotel bookings.
Tip 2: Ensure your carry-on bag is acceptable
You are allowed to bring one piece of luggage on board the plane during your flight. This is called your carry-on. Airlines will have carry-on size restrictions, so make sure to check with your airline’s policy if your bag is the proper size. Also, you will not be allowed to bring certain items on your carry-on. Items such as liquids and gels above 3.4 fluid ounces (100ml), knives, and guns are prohibited and will definitely be tossed into a bin when found at the airport’s security point.
Tip 3: Book the seat you want
Do you prefer more legroom with an aisle seat? Or do you prefer a bird’s eye view of the vast, blue sky from the window seat? If it is your first time flying, you deserve to enjoy the experience. You could get stuck with a middle seat with limited recline if you wait too late. Book early and reserve the seat you want by going on your airline’s website. Usually, you will have to pay a little bit extra for this option, but it will be worth it.
Tip 4: Wear comfortable clothes
Flying in airplanes is praised to be the safest travel method. What is not praised for? Comfortable seats. If you enjoy sweating while fidgeting in a tight space, go ahead and put on that designer jacket, chrome belt, and high heels. But if you are like me and prefer to be comfortable, wear extra comfortable clothes. Reach for loose, relaxing clothes. Pack an extra layer in your carry-on bag just in case you get cold. I like to wear slip-on slippers when flying instead of boots so that I am not only comfortable in the plane but also am not holding up the security check-in line while tugging on my trendy Chelsea boots that I bought on a fantastic sale.
Tip 5: Prepare your finances
Taking a trip to your bank before flying for the first time will be worthwhile. Let them know you will be travelling to another state or country, and they will make note of it for security purposes. This way, you will not find your credit card suddenly blocked due to your bank assuming it is being used fraudulently by someone in a different city.
While you are at your bank, it will be a good idea to exchange some money for foreign currency if you are travelling internationally. When I flew into Hong Kong without any Hong Kong currency, I had only one option: to use the airport’s currency exchange service, which cost me $20 extra just to exchange $100 into Hong Kong dollars.
Tip 6: Contact your phone provider
Let your phone provider know that you are travelling and would like to sign up for data roaming or an international calling plan. If you do not intend to use your phone, make sure you turn off your data plan. Then, double-check to make sure it really is off. The last thing you want to see after a wonderful vacation is a sky-high phone bill that could have been avoided by just turning off data roaming.
Don’t panic and enjoy flying for the first time
Follow these tips for first time flyers above, and you should be worry-free. Now the only thing to look forward to is your flight, which, in my humble opinion, is a very fun experience that we are fortunate enough to experience. Take your mind off the fear, and buckle up for your incredible vacation!
