Advice For First-Time Fliers to Make Your Trip More Relaxed and Enjoyable

If you’ve never before been on a plane but are considering getting out and about now that things are starting to go back to normal after COVID-19, you may be feeling anxious as a first-time flier. Rest assured, that with a little advanced preparation, your first trip on an airplane will go more smoothly than you expect. The following tips and advice for first-time fliers will provide you with what you need to know to have a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.

Packing Your Suitcase: Advice for first-time fliers

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make, whether they’re traveling by plane or car, is that they overpack. It’s easy to think you’re going to need much more than you actually do. Pack lightly if you can. Consider where you’re going and do some research on what others have brought to your destination. Find a packing list online from someone who has been where you’re going and in the same season, you’re visiting. This will help you determine what from your closet can stay and what should go in your suitcase.

Speaking of suitcases, if the trip warrants it, consider traveling in only a carry-on. If you’re able to pack everything you need in your carry-on luggage, you’ll shave time and aggravation off of your time in the airport. There are countless videos on YouTube from minimalist travelers who can help you decide what to pack in a carry-on. When packing your carry-on, make sure that you refer to the airline’s guidelines for acceptable on-flight bag sizes and contents.

Tips for Choosing Luggage

If you do need to opt for checked luggage, make sure your suitcase is one that is easily recognizable. Once you arrive at your destination and head to baggage claim, having a suitcase that stands out in a sea of navy and black will save time in the airport. If you’d rather not run out and buy new brightly colored luggage, simply purchase a few inexpensive travel straps in bright colors to add to your bag to distinguish it from others. Packing storage cubes will also help you pack more efficiently and save space if you do have a lot of items you need to bring on your trip. Similarly, investing in a TSA-approved lock for your luggage will ensure your belongings stay safe inside your suitcase.

Travel Day: Things to Do Before You Board the Plane

A little advanced preparation on your travel day will ensure a smooth experience when you arrive at the airport. The best advice for first-time fliers is to get as organized as possible before your flight. Lines throughout the airport can be confusing and feel rushed, so the better prepared you are ahead of your arrival, the more relaxed you’ll be when you finally board the plane.

Before you leave home, make sure all of your devices are fully charged and ready to go in your carry-on. Keep your phone, travel documents, and wallet in a separate portion of your bag. This will help you immeasurably when you arrive at security. If you’re able, always opt for online check-in. This will help you avoid long check-in lines and possibly even allow you to choose your seating in advance of your trip.

Another piece of advice first-time fliers can benefit from, is knowing whether or not their credit cards offer lounge access. A select portion of credit card companies provides a variety of travel rewards and benefits that can make your trip easier and more enjoyable. The list of credit cards with airport lounge access is long, so check to see if your credit card company participates.

Additional Advice for First-Time Fliers for the Best Travel Experience

Don’t be afraid to visit your doctor if anxiety is debilitating – it’s important to honor your feelings and lean into the fact that there are options if your anxiety around travel is overwhelming. If necessary, your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative to help you relax while you’re on the flight.

Allow yourself plenty of time to arrive at the airport  –  one of the biggest sources of stress for many people at the airport is rushing to your gate so you don’t miss your flight. Arrive early enough that you can get through security and relax for a while before boarding the plane.

Keep an eye on flight status and itinerary – flight details change as a result of weather or delays, be sure to regularly check your flight status to make sure you know when it’s arriving or departing.

Dress comfortably – make sure to dress in layers in comfortable clothing when traveling by plane. Planes are notoriously cold, but every once in a while, they can get warm. Dressing in layers will help keep you comfortable.

Stay hydrated – air travel can wreak havoc on your system. The air circulating in the plane will lack the moisture you’re accustomed to; drinking water will keep you hydrated and possibly minimize the effects of jet lag.

Bring snacks and food just in case – if you’re going to be in the air for a long time, bring TSA-approved snacks with you. Food on the plane can be expensive and may not be to your liking, so alleviate any issues with your own options from home.

Most Important Advice for First-Time Fliers: Relax and Enjoy Yourself

Traveling on a plane for the first time can feel overwhelming. You may feel anxious. There are thousands of flights traveling on a given day, plane travel is an everyday occurrence. It’s really no different than getting in the car and heading to the grocery store. With a little advanced preparation and with a relaxed and flexible mindset, you’ll be fine and likely ready to book your next flight right away.