Pre-Travel Checklist For First-Time Fliers: 4 Important Things To Do*

Yay! It is your first flight. Like every first-time flier, you are thrilled at the opportunity of embarking on a plane trip. You envision being in the sky while watching the clouds glide past your window. Your trip should be fun, you reassure yourself. But you seem to have forgotten that boarding a plane is nothing like boarding a train or bus.

If you are a first-time flier, the chances are that you lack insight into how things work at the airport and on a plane. Considering that, I have highlighted a few pre-travel checklists to help in ensuring that your travel is smooth and memorable!

1. Figure out the airport procedures

Each airport has different procedures. Considering that, you should take time to figure out the airport procedures before taking your flight.

Ever since the advent of the novel Coronavirus, some of these airport’s policies may have slightly changed.  For instance, before or during check-in on some airlines, you may be required to provide some documentation to board the flight. These documents include a negative COVID-19 test, a health declaration or passenger locator form, etc.

Also, you should note that some countries will deny you entry if you have yet to take the COVID-19 vaccination.  These countries include Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, etc..So ensure you do your due diligence before traveling.

2. Check-in online

Many airlines’ websites boast features that allow you to check in for their flights online. With this option in place, you can check in for your flight and print off your boarding pass via the airline’s website or mobile application.

If you’ve checked in online, you can bypass the check-in queues and move directly to security, which helps you save time.  But, you must note that not all airlines offer the online check-in feature. And, if you need help with any issue, you can check in at the airport.

3. Arrive in time

I bet you know this already. Nevertheless, I must reiterate it.  Arriving at the airport in time should be your aim. Doing so comes with several benefits.

When you arrive in time, you have the chance to go through the check-in queue and security. And since it is your first time at the airport, arriving early allows you to look around, do some shopping, or grab something to eat.

Furthermore, if the route to the airport is a busy one, arriving early could help you beat traffic and get to the airport in time.

4. Don’t forget your flight documents.

Your flight documents are your pass to boarding a plane. Without them, there is no way you’ll be getting on a plane. It is as simple as that. Considering this, it is important you come along with all necessary travel documents like your passport, ID card, required visa, etc. Always ensure that you check for these documents during your trip to ensure that they are in place.

Lastly, I’ll advise that you learn the different types of baggage and the rules, so you know the type of items to bring along.

Conclusion

Most first-time fliers often see flying as a big deal. In fact, some get anxious on the day of their flight. While such a feeling is normal, you shouldn’t let it mar your first flight. Always remember that adequate preparation is key to enjoying your first flight. Without it, you may encounter several challenges along the way.