Okay, so you’ve booked your first flight. I’m literally squealing for you! What are the things to do before boarding a plane? Frequent travelers swear by these travel hacks before boarding a flight that works like a charm.
I still remember my first flight. I was freaking out and excited at the same time. My bags were stuffed with things I didn’t need, I wore the completely wrong outfit, and don’t even get me started on how I nearly forgot my passport at home!
So, whether you’re flying for vacation, school, work, or just because you’re chasing adventure (yes, go you!). Here’s everything you should do before you fly, especially if it’s your first time. Grab a notebook or screenshot this, babe. You’ll thank me later.
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Travel hacks before boarding a flight
My first time on a plane was surreal. I have never been so anxious as i was. Plus, i was also unprepared to. My carryon had no essential to make my trip comfortable.
Hence, i wrote this blog post so you will not make the same mistake i made.
Get Your Travel Documents in Order
Trust me, this isn’t something you want to leave until the night before. Make sure your passport is valid (some countries require 6 months of validity from the date you land), your visa is approved, and you’ve printed out all important docs (hotel bookings, return tickets, vaccination records, etc.).I keep everything in a cute little travel wallet as it makes me feel put together even when I’m low-key panicking inside.
Check Airline & Baggage Rules
Not all airlines are created equal. I once flew a budget airline that charged me nearly as much as my flight for extra luggage. So, do yourself a favor by checking your airline’s carry-on size limit, checked baggage allowance, and liquid rules (yes, even toothpaste counts). Oh, and if you’re allowed a personal item, make sure it fits under the seat. I pack a backpack with my essentials and keep my bulky stuff in the checked bag.
Pick Your Seat in Advance
Okay, window or aisle? I’m a team window all the way. I love staring out at the clouds and pretending I’m in a music video.Some airlines let you choose your seat during booking (sometimes for free, sometimes for a fee). If you’re nervous about turbulence, try to get a seat over the wing as it’s usually the most stable part of the plane. If you’re tall or want extra legroom, consider paying a little more for an exit row seat.
Download Everything
Don’t count on airplane Wi-Fi! Some flights don’t even have it and the ones that do charge you like you’re buying a house. I always download movies, TV shows, music, e-books, and even Google Maps offline (this saved me so many times abroad). I also screenshot important addresses and directions. Plus, who doesn’t love vibing to their own playlist mid-flight?
Also check out these lists of the best travel apps to you need handy before you travel.
Plan Your Airport Outfit Like a Pro
You want to be cute and comfy. My go-to is leggings, an oversized hoodie, compression socks (yes, they’re not just for grannies), and a cozy scarf that doubles as a blanket.Remember, airports get cold. Planes get even colder.
Dress in layers, wear slip-on shoes (you’ll thank me at security), and keep your jewelry minimal so you don’t get held up by those body scanners. Also check out these lists of airport outfit ideas that keep warm and stylish. And of course, these outfits are Bella Hadid approved.
Pack Your Carry-On Like a Survival Kit
Your carry-on is your BFF. Mine always includes:Passport & IDBoarding pass (digital + paper)Headphones (noise-cancelling if you can)A book or magazineSnacks (airport food is pricey and meh)Lip balm + hand sanitizer + lotion (planes dry you out)Portable charger (non-negotiable!)A pen (you’ll need this for immigration forms)I also recommend packing a change of clothes in case your luggage pulls a disappearing act. It happens.
Arrive at the Airport Early
For international flights, I aim to arrive 3 hours before departure. For domestic, 2 hours is usually fine.Security lines can be long, check-in might be confusing, and sometimes airports are just chaos. But arriving too early also means a lot of waiting, so find that sweet spot. I once arrived 5 hours early thinking I was being smart. I was not. I just got really bored and drank too much coffee.
Eat Before You Fly
Look, airplane food is hit or miss, and I’m being nice. If you’re flying economy, your options may be limited, or you might not get food at all on short-haul flights. I always eat something light but filling before heading to the airport. It could be a sandwich, fruit, or rice and protein. Also, bring snacks! Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, etc. You don’t want to be hangry at 35,000 feet.
Tell Someone You’re Flying
This sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Let a family member or close friend know your flight time, airline, and destination. Share your itinerary and check in with them once you land.I even send my Airbnb or hotel address to my bestie just in case. It’s about being safe and responsible. Also, it’s fun when someone is waiting for your “I landed!!!” text.
Prep Your Mind
Flying for the first time is a BIG DEAL. You might be anxious and that’s okay. I was a bundle of nerves my first time too. Bring things that comfort you like a neck pillow, a calming playlist, a journal, gum (for ear pressure), or even a fidget toy.Remember, flying is statistically the safest mode of transportation. Focus on the adventure ahead. You’re literally about to float through the sky. That’s kind of magical, don’t you think?
Download the Airline App
Last but not least, download your airline’s app. It gives you real-time updates on gates, boarding time changes, delays, and sometimes you can even download your boarding pass right into it.I once avoided missing a flight because I got a last-minute gate change notification from the app. It’s a lifesaver!
Which of these travel hacks before boarding a flight do you apply? Are you planning to board a plane for the first time? Will you be applying these travel hacks before boarding a flight travelers swear by. Let me know in the comments below. Ciao for now.
