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What You Should Know If You Are Flying for the First Time

March 8, 2025 – 5 min read

Must-Know as a First-Time Flyer​ - Picture of people boarding a plane.

Flying for the first time? It’s completely normal to feel both excited and a little nervous. Whether you’re looking forward to your journey or worried about the unknown, being prepared can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll find everything first-time flyers need to know, from booking your flight to stepping off the plane with confidence.

1. Booking & Preparing for Your Flight

1.1. Choosing Your Flight & Seat

  • Book your flight well in advance to get the best ticket prices and a wider selection of seats, especially for popular routes.

  • Choose an aisle seat if you want more freedom to move around and easy access to the restroom, or a window seat if you enjoy looking outside and prefer a quieter experience.

  • Select a seat over the wings if you’re worried about turbulence, as this area experiences the least movement and provides a more stable flight.

1.2. Packing Essentials

  • Carry-on bag: Pack all essential items in your carry-on, including travel documents (passport, visa, boarding pass), a fully charged phone and charger, any necessary medications, snacks, and a change of clothes in case of delays or if your checked suitcase gets lost (yes, unfortunately this can happen).

  • Checked luggage: Follow your airline’s baggage weight limits and restrictions to avoid extra fees. Make sure to secure your bag with a luggage tag and avoid packing valuable or fragile items in your checked bag.

  • Liquids rule: Most airports only allow liquids of up to 100ml in your carry-on, which must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. Pack toiletries accordingly to prevent any issues at security.

1.3. Checking Airline Policies

  • Check in online 24 to 48 hours before departure to secure your seat and save time at the airport by avoiding long check-in lines.
  • Understand your airline’s baggage policy by checking size and weight restrictions for both carry-on and checked luggage. This will help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
  • Ensure your passport and visa (if applicable) are valid for your destination. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months after arrival, and others may require a visa, so check these requirements well in advance.

2. The Airport Experience: What to Expect

2.1. Arriving at the Airport

  • Arrive early to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and finding your gate. Plan to be at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to avoid last-minute stress.

  • If you haven’t checked in online, locate your airline’s check-in counter upon arrival. Some airlines have self-service kiosks to print your boarding pass, while others require you to check in at the counter.

  • Have your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass ready when checking in to speed up the process.

2.2. Security Screening Process

  • Prepare your belongings for screening by placing your carry-on bag, electronic devices (like laptops and tablets), and liquids in separate bins as instructed. Shoes, jackets, and belts may also need to be removed. This is true for most airports however, some of them are equipped with new scanners and you won’t have to get anything out of your bags.
  • Follow instructions as you walk through the metal detector or full-body scanner. If an alarm goes off, security may conduct a quick pat-down.
  • Keep your passport and boarding pass easily accessible, you may need to show them again after passing through security.

2.3. Finding Your Gate

  • Check the airport monitors for your gate number and boarding time, as these can change. Airports update flight information in real time, so always confirm your gate before heading there.

  • Some airports are large and may require a train or shuttle bus to transfer between terminals. If this is the case, allow extra time to reach your gate.
  • Listen for announcements and keep an eye on your boarding time: airlines typically start boarding 30-45 minutes before departure and close the gate about 15 minutes before takeoff. Make sure to arrive on time and not last minute to avoid the risk of not being allowed on the aircraft.

3. Boarding & Takeoff

3.1. How Boarding Works

  • Airlines board passengers in groups or zones, which are printed on your boarding pass. First-class, business-class, and priority passengers typically board first, followed by economy class in sections.

  • Listen for announcements and follow signs directing you to your boarding gate. If you’re unsure, ask airport staff for help.
  • Once onboard, find your seat by matching the row and seat letter. Overhead bins are available for carry-on luggage, while smaller bags can go under the seat in front of you.
  • Flight attendants are there to help—if you need assistance storing your bag or locating your seat, don’t hesitate to ask.

3.2. What to Expect During Takeoff

  • Before departure, the plane will taxi to the runway, which may take several minutes depending on airport traffic.
  • As the engines increase power, you’ll feel a strong push backward, this is completely normal. The plane will gain speed rapidly and lift off the ground smoothly.
  • Once airborne, the plane may tilt slightly as it climbs and turns. You may hear mechanical sounds, like the landing gear retracting. This is part of normal flight operations, so relax and remember that you’re in good hands.
  • A few minutes after takeoff (if there is no sign of turbulence ahead), the pilot will turn off the seatbelt sign, allowing passengers to move around the cabin if needed. However, for your safety, keep your seatbelt on while seated.

Tips for a Comfortable Takeoff

  • If you feel anxious, focus on slow, deep breathing or listen to calming music through noise-canceling headphones.
  • Chew gum or swallow water to help relieve any ear pressure caused by altitude changes.
  • Distract yourself by watching an in-flight video, reading a book, or chatting with your seatmate.
  • For more tips, read our article on how to stay calm during a flight.

4. In-Flight Experience

4.1. Understanding Turbulence

  • Turbulence is completely normal and happens when the plane moves through different air currents. It may feel bumpy, but it is not dangerous.

  • Planes are built to withstand turbulence, and pilots are trained to handle it safely.
  • If turbulence occurs, keep your seatbelt fastened and try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or listening to calming music.

4.2. Staying Comfortable

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as cabin air can be dry and cause dehydration.
  • Stretch your legs and move around occasionally, especially on long flights, to improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing and consider bringing a neck pillow, eye mask, or blanket for added comfort.
  • If your ears feel blocked due to altitude changes, chew gum, swallow, or yawn to help relieve the pressure.
  • Read our article about surprising ways flying affects your body to better understand the science behind all the things you might be feeling.

5. Landing & Arrival

5.1. What to Expect During Landing

  • As the plane begins its descent, you may feel a gradual drop in altitude, but this is completely normal.

  • You might hear a “ding” sound when the seatbelt sign turns on, signaling that landing is approaching. Some other instructions like making sure that seat and tray table are in upright and locked position might be given by the crew. Make sure that you listen and apply all requests.
  • The plane will touch down on the runway and slow down quickly using brakes and reverse thrust. This might feel sudden but is completely safe.
  • Once the plane taxies to the gate, the seatbelt sign will turn off, and passengers will begin deplaning row by row.

5.2. Navigating the Airport Upon Arrival

  • Follow airport signs directing you to baggage claim if you have checked luggage.
  • If traveling internationally, be prepared to go through customs and immigration, have your passport, visa (if required), and landing card ready for inspection.
  • Look for transportation options such as taxis, airport shuttles, buses, ride-sharing services, or rental cars. Some airports have public transport connections, which can be a cost-effective option.
  • If you have a connecting flight, check the airport screens for gate information and head to the departure area. In some cases and if you are short on time, you may warn the cabin crew about your connection as they might be able to tell you your next boarding gate upon arrival, while still on the plane. This will allow you to save precious time when landing.

6. Final Reassurance & Extra Tips

6.1. Managing Flight Anxiety

  • Inform a flight attendant if you’re feeling anxious: they are trained to support nervous passengers and can offer reassurance.

  • Stay occupied with a book, calming music, a guided meditation app, or movies to distract your mind from anxiety.
  • Focus on facts: Air travel is one of the safest modes of transportation, with millions of flights taking off and landing safely every day.
  • Practice deep breathing techniques or try progressive muscle relaxation to ease tension.

6.2. Apps & Tools to Help

  • FlightAware or Flightradar24: Track your flight in real-time and get live updates.

  • Calm or Headspace: Perfect for guided breathing exercises and meditation to reduce travel stress.
  • Google Translate: Helps with language barriers, especially useful when flying to a non-English speaking destination.
  •  Airline Apps: Many airlines have apps where you can check in, view boarding passes, and receive real-time flight updates.
  • TripIt: Organizes all your flight details, reservations, and travel itinerary in one place.

Your Checklist

  • Arrive early and check in online when possible.
  • Pack smart and make sure to follow the liquid rules as well as airline policies.
  • Expect security screening and boarding to follow a structured process.
  • Takeoff and turbulence are normal; stay calm and breathe.
  • Landing can feel bumpy, but it’s completely safe.
  • Ask the crew for help if you need reassurance.

Flying for the first time can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process will make your experience much smoother. Remember, air travel is one of the safest modes of transportation. With preparation and the right mindset, you can enjoy your journey and focus on the adventure ahead!

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The Calm Cabin was created by a once-terrified flyer who finally overcame her fear of flying, and is now on a mission to help others do the same.

If the thought of stepping on a plane fills you with anxiety, you’re not alone. This space is here to support, reassure, and empower you to take off with confidence, so you can finally enjoy traveling and discover the world with ease and peace of mind.

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