What should i know about flying for the first time

If your carry-on bag is too bulky, you may have to pay to check it. Likewise, if your checked bag is over a certain size, you may have to pay a higher-than-usual fee to check it. It's best to avoid these surprises, if possible. Remember, if you pack light enough , you could avoid baggage fees altogether.

Having an airline credit card can mean waived checked baggage fees, as well. You'll also want to pack some in-flight entertainment, such as your laptop, headphones and a book or magazine. And keep in mind that if your carry-on bag is too big to fit under the seat in front of you, you may have to check it.

More rules may apply if you're flying internationally. In fact, the TSA recommends showing up at least two hours before takeoff for domestic travel, and three hours for international travel. Ultimately, you need to give yourself enough time to get your boarding pass, check your bags and go through security before your plane starts boarding.

Sometimes, that takes 10 minutes. Other times, especially during peak travel times, it can take much longer. Airlines typically start boarding passengers 30 minutes before takeoff in groups. Generally, a boarding time will be printed on your ticket. Decades ago, airport security was relatively lax. Going through airport security might be the most stressful part of flying — but if you know what to expect, the whole rigmarole can feel much less taxing.

Empty the contents of your pockets and remove your hat, belt, jacket, wallet and bulky jewelry. Remove your laptop and liquids from your bag. Send these items — and your carry-on bag — through an X-ray machine. Walk through a metal detector or a body scanner or opt for a pat-down.

Find out tips on how to prepare for the flight as well as what to do to minimise any discomfort. From vitamin help, through ideal snacks for the flight, to what to do during a long haul, our guide is here to help first-timers. Based on my personal experiences, I put together this list with all the items you should take with you on a long flight.

I'm sure this will help you have a much better journey than ever before. Of course, long hauls can get very tiring and demanding, especially when you need to stop a couple of times during your travels and spend time in different airports. I remember embarking on this journey totally unprepared, hence ended up feeling sick, catching a cold, not getting any sleep and having a terrible time.

Worry not, this won't happen to you because you will be prepared! Want to know what suitcase sizes to pick for your next travel? Need help on what luggage to buy and why? I wish I knew how to really prep for a long flight and how easy it is to transform your long haul into a first-class experience. If you are a first time flyer to Europe, don't forget to check this awesome packing list for your ease.

There are two reasons why you will need these. Firstly, because you will actually enjoy the sound of silence, as opposed to the continuous background engine noise. Secondly, you might find yourself very unlucky, being seated right in front of a family with small children.

Nothing wrong with small kids, of course, but sometimes it can happen that they cry a lot due to cabin pressure. It can happen to any of us.

So you want to make sure your sleep doesn't get disturbed no matter what. Put those noise cancelling headphones on and listen to relaxing music or download a white noise app which allows you to sleep in silence. What is travelling vegan like? Ever since we become plant-based, a lot of our readers sent us emails asking us this question. Most airlines will have their own music available on the entertainment system, but sometimes you might find yourself on a plane that has some really bizarre playlists.

I for example, really like listening to meditation music during a long flight. I use it to fall asleep on. On my way to Japan , I flew with China Air and none of the music selection was right for my taste. If you don't want to listen to music, you can download an app for white noise. Some people can't sleep with music and that's ok. What if you don't like the food you get on board? Or you get hungry in-between meals? Best to have some snacks with you just in case.

I like to bring a couple of bagels they really put your hunger at bay , some salted crisps, nuts, a couple of fruits something like apples, bananas or blueberries and some protein bars. Try to avoid sugar as it might make you more susceptible to catching viruses. I love to keep my hands clean at all times. I find it really refreshing to use the antibacterial wipes after sleeping on a plane or finishing my meal.

I also go to the washroom to just refresh a little: clean my face with warm water and wash my hands with soap. You are more susceptible to getting ill because of the dry air and a crazy number of passengers around you. Keeping your face and hands clean helps minimise the risk. You totally want to enjoy the free booze included in your flight price. The alcohol will get you dehydrated, together with the already recycled dry air, you will end up having some killer headaches.

Make a habit of drinking at least 2 litres of water during your flight. Hydration will also help you better cope with the jetlag. Besides, the more you sleep, the faster time flies. Most international flights will have pillows and blankets available, but I like to use those for securing my lower back.

Just buy the most comfortable not necessarily the most expensive travel pillow for your needs. The air gets really dry and you are travelling for hours and hours in a box … with hundreds of other potentially sick people.

To help you avoid potential illness, take a vitamin C pill prior to your flight. Get the super potent ones mg. Always have a few vitamins handy. I know this may sound silly, but since I started taking a vitamin C before my flights, I just don't get ill anymore.

Help your immune system with a little boost. Besides, vitamin C is cheap and easy to carry so it's really the best tip I can offer you! Even being a couple rows back from the exit may help put your mind at ease. Traveling can be nerve-wracking at times, but if you take some deep breaths and picture yourself at your destination, you will feel way calmer. Ready to book your flight? Already planning an escape from the winter weather? These best beach destinations for winter are the perfect places to escape to.

Prepare for your trip before you go. Whether you need to apply for a brand new passport or to renew your old one, there is a process for each. Lucky for you, we're here to help you navigate through it! It's October and we're officially ready for Halloween. Grab a PSL and check out this list of best places to visit for Halloween celebrations.

Only drink water before your flight This means no alcoholic beverages or even sugary drinks like soda. Pay attention to the safety instructions before takeoff Once you get on the flight, find your seat and fasten your seat belt, take some time to review the safety brochures in front of you.

If possible, travel with a friend Although you may not always be flying with someone, it may be a good idea to have someone with you the first time you fly. Pack ginger candy or ask for ginger ale If you start to feel sick during the flight because of turbulence, feel free to call a flight attendant over and ask for some ginger ale.