Flying for the first time? Here’s what you need to know to make your trip stress-free:
- Arrive Early: Get to the airport 2 hours before domestic flights, 3–4 hours for international ones.
- Pack Smart: Follow TSA rules (3.4 oz liquids), carry essentials (ID, boarding pass, meds, snacks), and check baggage limits.
- Documents: From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or passport is mandatory for U.S. domestic flights. International travel requires a valid passport and visas.
- Security Tips: Have your ID and boarding pass ready, remove shoes and electronics, and use TSA PreCheck for faster screening.
- In-Flight Comfort: Choose seats based on your needs (e.g., over wings for less turbulence), stay hydrated, and bring a travel pillow.
- After Landing: Follow deplaning etiquette, check for belongings, and plan transportation in advance.
Before Your Flight
Selecting Your Flight
When booking flights, it’s best to use the airline’s official website. Booking directly often makes it easier to handle changes and reduces the risk of delays. If you’re booking connecting flights, aim for at least a 2-hour layover to avoid rushing or missing your connection [2].
| Booking Method | Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Website | Easier changes, loyalty points | Simple trips with one airline |
| OTAs (e.g., Expedia, Kayak) | Price comparison, package deals | Complex itineraries with multiple airlines |
Once your flight is booked, focus on organizing your travel documents to avoid any hiccups.
Required Travel Documents
Starting May 7, 2025, all domestic travelers will need a REAL ID–compliant identification card for flights within the U.S. [4].
For domestic flights, bring:
- A valid REAL ID, driver’s license, or passport
- Your boarding pass
- A copy of your confirmation number and flight details (digital or printed) [2]
For international flights, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date) [5]
- Any necessary visas for your destination
- Backup copies of all travel documents stored separately [5]
If you forget your ID, the TSA may allow you to fly after completing an identity verification process. However, they strongly recommend arriving at least three hours early in this case [4].
With your documents sorted, the next step is to pack efficiently and within airline rules.
Packing Guidelines
Packing the night before can save you from last-minute stress [2]. Double-check your airline’s baggage size and weight limits before you start.
Carry-on essentials:
- Medications and valuables
- A change of clothes
- Portable power bank
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks [6]
Remember to follow the TSA’s 3.4-ounce rule for liquids [3]. Roll casual clothes, fold formal items, wear bulky clothing, and use packing cubes to stay organized [6].
Most airlines allow carry-ons up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but it’s always smart to confirm your airline’s specific limits [8]. Keep important items like electronics and liquids in an easily accessible spot in your personal item for smooth security checks [7]. If you’re unsure about any items, consult the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” page before packing [7].
At the Airport
When to Arrive
Plan to arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights [9]. If you’re traveling during busy times like weekends, Mondays, or Fridays, consider adding extra time [9]. Flights in the early morning (5:00 AM to 7:00 AM) or late evening often have shorter lines [9].
Check-In and Security
You can check in online or at your airline’s counter. For domestic flights, make sure to check in at least 30 minutes before departure [11]. Using your airline’s mobile app can save time, offering digital boarding passes and updates.
“TSA statistics indicate that over 90% of passengers pass through security in under 30 minutes, provided they come prepared.” [12]
To breeze through security:
- Have your ID and boarding pass ready.
- Remove shoes, belts, and jackets.
- Place electronics and liquids in separate bins.
- Keep 3-1-1 compliant liquids easily accessible [12].
The MyTSA app can give you real-time updates on security wait times. If you’re looking to save time, programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can make the process faster, especially during busy periods [9][10]. Once you’re through security, head straight to your gate.
Getting to Your Gate
Check the airport monitors for your gate number, as this information is updated 60 to 90 minutes before departure [13]. Even if your gate number is printed on your boarding pass, double-check it – last-minute changes happen.
Boarding typically begins 30–50 minutes before departure and closes 15 minutes prior [14]. Use the time before boarding to:
- Find restrooms near your gate.
- Refill your water bottle.
- Charge your devices.
- Stay alert for any gate change announcements.
Most airports now offer free Wi-Fi and mobile apps with interactive maps to help you navigate the terminal [13].
During Your Flight
Seat Comfort Tips
Choosing the right seat can make a big difference in your in-flight experience. Commercial Pilot Patrick Smith explains, “The smoothest place to sit is over the wings” [15]. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide based on your needs:
| Seat Location | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Over Wings | Less turbulence | Nervous flyers |
| Front of Plane | Quieter environment | Light sleepers |
| Exit Row | Extra legroom | Tall passengers |
| Window | Better sleep, light control | Rest-focused travelers |
| Aisle | Easy movement access | Active passengers |
“But even if you’re upgrading to premium economy, check the specific location”, Reilly advises. “Seats near exit rows may not fully recline” [16].
For added comfort, wear loose clothing, use compression socks, and drink plenty of water – airplane cabins are notoriously dry. Limit caffeine and alcohol to stay hydrated.
On long flights, these tips can help ease discomfort:
- Stand up and stretch every 2-3 hours
- Flex your feet while seated
- Bring a travel pillow
- Use moisturizer to combat dry skin
- Carry nasal spray for cabin dryness [17]
While comfort matters, always prioritize safety during your flight.
Safety Rules
Your safety starts with paying close attention to the pre-flight briefing. Aircraft features and procedures vary, so take note of the nearest emergency exit and count the rows to it in case visibility is limited.
Key in-flight safety practices include:
- Keeping your seatbelt fastened whenever seated
- Following crew instructions without delay
- Stowing carry-on items securely under the seat or in overhead bins
- Keeping aisles free of personal belongings
- Using electronic devices only in airplane mode when allowed [18]
“I have found that music therapy lessens anxiety and supports emotional regulation. In fact, according to experts, music affects the amount of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, that the body releases, and reducing these hormones can help relieve symptoms of anxiety as music acts as a distractor pulling the patient’s/flyer’s attention away from the negative and/or overwhelming stimuli” [19].
Whether you’re managing anxiety or just trying to relax, music can be a powerful tool to make your flight more enjoyable.
After Landing
Leaving the Plane
When your flight touches down, stay seated until the fasten seat belt sign is turned off. Etiquette Expert and Former Flight Attendant Jacqueline Whitmore shares:
“After the plane lands and the fasten seat belt sign goes off, passengers may start to deplane, one row at a time” [20].
Let passengers in rows ahead of you exit first, grab your items from the overhead bin quickly, double-check your seat area for personal belongings, and leave the plane in an orderly, single-file manner. It’s fine to stand near your seat while waiting, as long as you’re not blocking the aisle. If your luggage doesn’t show up, report it immediately at the airline’s baggage office [21]. For international flights, be ready for additional checks after deplaning.
International Arrival Steps
If you’re arriving internationally, you’ll need to go through both passport control and customs. This process can take an hour or more during busy times [22]. Be sure to fill out any required declaration forms during your flight, and keep your passport and customs paperwork easily accessible. Services like Global Entry or Mobile Passport can speed up the process. Plan ahead to ensure you have enough time for connecting flights.
“Entering a country is a two-step process that involves both passport control and customs” [23].
Transportation Options
Once you’ve cleared customs and collected your bags, it’s time to figure out your ground transportation. Using Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as an example, here are a few options:
- FlyAway Bus: Costs about $9.75, with a travel time of 30-45 minutes.
- Airport Parking: Daily rates generally range from $35 to $60.
- Ride-sharing: Prices vary, with travel times between 20-60 minutes depending on traffic.
At LAX, ride-sharing services like Lyft, Opoli, and Uber pick up passengers in the designated LAX-it area. A free shuttle connects you to this zone [24]. Check the airport’s website for exact pickup locations, confirm your driver’s ID before getting in, and consider shared shuttles or public transit if you’re traveling light and want to save money.
5 Must-Know Travel Tips for First Time Flyers
Problem-Solving Guide
When travel plans hit a snag, staying calm and acting quickly can make all the difference.
Flight Changes
If your flight plans change unexpectedly, preparation is key. Scott Keyes, founder of Going.com, offers this advice:
“Check your flight status before you go to the airport. Most of these notifications are not happening at the last minute. Save yourself the drive to the airport.” [25]
At the airport, use your airline’s mobile app for updates, call customer service (international centers often have shorter wait times), or even reach out via social media. If you’re in a lounge, staff there can often assist as well.
Keyes also highlights the importance of your approach when seeking help:
“Honey attracts more flies than vinegar. Look at this from the airline agents’ perspective. … The agent is the one who has the most ability to help you. Asking nicely and sympathetically is far more likely to get what you want than being a jerk about it.” [25]
For immediate support, services like Flight Booking 247 provide live operator assistance to help you handle flight changes and explore alternative options.
Long Flight Tips
| Timing | Action | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Flight | Set your watch to the destination’s time zone | Prepares your body for the shift |
| During Flight | Walk every 2-3 hours | Reduces stiffness and improves circulation |
| Post-Landing | Get natural sunlight | Helps adjust to the local time |
Rick Steves, a well-known travel expert, shares this tip:
“Jet lag hates fresh air, daylight, and exercise. Your body may beg for sleep, but stand firm: Refuse. Force your body’s transition to the local time.”
Consider taking melatonin supplements (0.5 mg) when traveling east, about 13 hours before your desired wake time [26]. Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine or alcohol can also help reduce jet lag [26][27].
Helpful Travel Apps
Technology can be a lifesaver when travel disruptions occur. Here are a few apps to keep handy:
- Your airline’s app: Get real-time updates and access mobile boarding passes.
- FlightAware: Track flight delays and changes.
- Mobile Passport: Speed up international arrivals.
Sign up for free text alerts and save all airline communications to make resolving issues easier. Remember, airlines are required to provide cash refunds for major delays or cancellations, even if you don’t ask directly [25].
Quick Tips Summary
Here’s a handy reference guide to help you stay on top of things, from pre-flight planning to post-flight essentials.
| Time Before Flight | Action | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| 24–48 hours | Check in online | Avoids long lines and saves time at the airport |
| 3 hours (international) | Arrive at the airport | Ensures enough time for security and locating your gate |
| 2 hours (domestic) | Arrive at the airport | Allows time for luggage processing and security |
Document and Tech Prep
- Keep secure digital copies of key documents.
- Download your airline’s app for updates and mobile boarding passes.
- Use a VPN when connected to public Wi-Fi at the airport.
- Carry a portable charger to keep your devices powered.
Packing Smarter
- Pack medications and must-haves in your carry-on.
- Bring an empty reusable water bottle (cabin humidity can drop to 10%-20%).
- Wear shoes that are easy to remove at security.
- Dress in comfortable, layered clothing.
- Pack TSA-friendly snacks to avoid overpriced airport food.
Managing Money
- Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid card issues.
- Consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.
- Be ready for airport shops, which often charge up to 50% more than usual.
And don’t forget the timeless advice from Douglas Adams:
“The most important thing a traveler needs to remember whether making their way through time and space or simply to Cleveland is this: Don’t Panic.” [1]
These tips will help you feel prepared and in control for your next flight.
