Useful tips for first-time flyers
If you have never flown before, don't worry. These basic tips will help you have the most perfect flight.
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| Know what you're not allowed to bring on a flight: If you want to bring something large, unusual, or potentially dangerous, check the TSA website to make sure it's allowed on the flight. |
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| It's a good idea to check before you get to the airport which terminal you'll be arriving at, especially if it's a large airport where terminals can be quite far apart. Check which airline you're flying with and look up the corresponding terminal online. |
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| It is recommended to be at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight. The general rule is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before if it is a domestic flight and 3 hours before if it is an international flight. During the holiday season and other peak travel times, you may want to allow more time to avoid long searches. |
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| Don’t forget to check in. You can check in online the day before or at the airport up to 1 hour before your actual flight. This is also when you can choose your seat, so it’s better to do it earlier. |
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| Carry-on luggage is carried on your person. It should contain all valuables such as mobile phones, wallets, etc. Each airline has its own rules about the amount of luggage you can carry, if you exceed the weight limit, you will be charged extra. |
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| Checked baggage is taken to the airline counter where it is weighed and checked. It should be securely locked and stored in the hold below, you will only retrieve your checked baggage when you get off the plane, so make sure you don't forget anything important in there. |
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| If it's a long flight, wear comfortable clothes. Don't worry too much about appearance, it's better to wear comfortable clothes on a long flight. |
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| Before going through the metal detector, you will be asked to place your belongings in a tray (belt, cell phone, jewelry) and take off your shoes. If the detector goes off, don't panic, just follow the instructions and you'll be fine. |
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| To board the plane, they will ask you to show your boarding pass and passport. Having these documents on hand will make the whole process go faster. |
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| The sudden change in air pressure during takeoff can make your ears feel blocked. To relieve some of the pressure, pinch your nose with your fingers and try to exhale. Chewing gum can also help. |
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| If it's your first time on a plane, try to get a nice window seat. Have your phone ready to take some great photos, put it on airplane mode of course. |
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| If you feel dizzy while flying, you can use the sick bag in the back of your seat, or ask a flight attendant for water. There may be some turbulence, but the pilot will usually warn you in advance over the intercom. |
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| Send all your texts before takeoff because once you are seated you have to leave your phone on airplane mode for the entire flight. Some planes offer Wi-Fi, but it is often unreliable and expensive. |
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| When the plane first lands, don't stand up immediately. Wait in your seat and be patient. The flight crew will let you know when it's safe to stand up and retrieve your carry-on luggage. |
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| There will be a large conveyor belt that carries all the luggage. Look for your flight number on your boarding pass and check which conveyor belt your luggage goes on. |