First Time Air Travel: A Guide

First time experiences can be scary, you feel a jitter of apprehension, a slight nervousness as you foray into something you have not done before. The same goes with air travel; it can be daunting experience especially for the first time since it involves an array of things to keep in mind. However fear not, with this succinct guide we’ll tell you everything you need to know for your first time air travel.
 

The Ticket

Searching for your required ticket online is the easiest way to acquire it. Kayak and Expedia are excellent search engines for this purpose and provide a variety of options according to which you can carry out your search. Purchasing your selected ticket is quick and easy, just follow the instructions.
 

Required Documents

For domestic travel, your driver’s license or ID card will do. For international travel a valid passport is required. It should not be near expiration.
 

The Luggage

Make sure that your luggage does not violate any of the airlines requirements. Check the airline’s website to see details regarding the luggage. Usually airlines allow one carry on item and one personal item. Weigh your luggage carefully beforehand so that it does not exceed the weight limits. Most airlines charge for each checked bag. Also plan what you’ll put in your carry-on bag carefully. You are allowed liquids as long as they are contained in 100mL bottles and put into a clear plastic bag.
 

Punctuality

It’s always a good idea to arrive at the airport early. This gives you plenty of time in which you can make it through the various checkpoints and processes. As a rule arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
 

Check In

Follow the signs to the airline desk and check in, make sure you have your photo identification to present to the agent. The agent will look up your reservation and print your boarding passes. He’ll also collect fees for any baggage that needs to be checked in. You can ask the agent for your preferred seat. The agent will then ask you to place your checked bags on a scale next to his desk where they will be weighed, tagged and taken via conveyor to the plane. Remember to take your boarding passes and your ID back.
 

Security

The next part involves getting through security. The signs will tell you where to go. At the checkpoint they’ll ask for your ID and boarding pass. You’ll need to take off your shoes and jacket at the screening machines and place them into a bin with your clear plastic bag. Once you’re cleared retrieve your items.
 

The Final Step

Once you’re through security it’s time to find your gate. Your boarding pass should have your gate number on it, if it doesn’t you can use the electronic displays to find your flight and subsequent gate number. Inside the gate, you’ll have to wait till they start the boarding process. Find your seat by checking the labels above each row. The smaller bags go under the seat and the larger ones overhead, in the bins.

Your first time air travel will go smoothly if you follow the steps outline above.