Take to the Skies: 10 Pro Tips to Prepare for Your First Time Flying

More than one in ten Americans have never traveled beyond their state.

It can be daunting getting on an airplane for the first time. You need to make sure you don’t make any of the common mistakes.

You might be ready to fly into the sky. But, are you prepared for what is waiting for you when you arrive at the airport.

Here are the pro-tips for any first time flying novice who is eager to make their experience safe and sound.

Check out everything you need to know below!

1. Pack Lighter Than Normal

Nearly two-thirds of Americans say they get stressed about packing before they go traveling.

This can be the worse part of anyone’s vacation. However, you need to make sure you don’t overpack.

When you’re traveling via car, you don’t need to think so carefully about whether you need an extra pair of pants.

But, when you travel by plane every item of clothing can cost you extra money. That’s why it’s essential to pack lightly.

If you’re not sure how much you’re permitted to take with you the plane, then you need to do your homework before you embark.

2. Make Sure You Have Your Passport 

Many Americans don’t have a passport.

If you’re planning on traveling beyond the United States, then you need to apply for a passport months before your trip.

Make sure everything is up to date and stored safely. You can’t travel to many countries if your passport expires within six months.

3. Buy Noise Canceling Headphones 

The engine noise generated by the airplane may be quite a shock your first time around. You may also find yourself in the unfortunate position of sitting next to a noisy snorer.

There is no escape from this sometimes. You’ll be thankful that you packed a pair of noise-canceling headphones with you. 

You normally get provided with a pair of headphones by the airline anyway. This is especially common in business class. Even so, you can’t beat a quality pair of headphones. 

4. Pack Plenty of Tasty Snacks 

You may be provided with a meal or two on your journey by the airline. But, this may not be enough to keep you from hunger.

A few snacks can help keep you going. Don’t bring anything messy or smelly. Be considerate of your fellow passengers.

However, you may also find that candy that can be sucked is always worth having on you when you ascend or descend. This can stop your ears from popping.

5. Keep Sanitizer Handy

Airplanes can be dirty things. There are constantly people walking up and down the aisles. You can help prevent the spread of viruses with sanitizer.

That’s why it’s worthwhile keeping sanitizer with at all times. You never know when you might need to wipe down your hands.

You may not be able to get your hands on warm water and soap while you’re on the airplane. It’s just easier to do everything from your seat.

6. Pack a Warm Sweater 

When you’re on the flight, you’ll probably notice that the temperature drops. The AC will suddenly kick in and you’ll cool down.

You don’t want to spend the entire flight chilly. You may be given a blanket by the airline. But, you can’t depend on the airline staff to take care of you.

That’s why it’s always recommended that you carry a warm sweater with you. A scruffy hoodie will serve the purpose of keeping you warm during your journey.

You can even use the sweater as a makeshift cushion travel pillow to hold your head up while you sleep.

7. Don’t Drink Alcohol on Board

When you get on board, one of the delights of travel is being offered free alcohol. The temptation to get drunk on the flight can be too much to resist sometimes.

Nevertheless, you need to hold your nerve. If you have never been on a flight before, then you won’t know how your body will respond to alcohol in the sky.

That’s why you shouldn’t take the risk. Moreover, you should remember to stay hydrated throughout the flight.

Say no to the gin and tonic and choose a bottle of water instead. This will help make sure you’re feeling ok for the flight.

8. Wear Sleep Mask

You might want to make the journey go quicker by sleeping as much as you can.

But, this isn’t easy with the noise and lights. You have your noise-canceling headphones to cut out sounds.

What about getting a sleeping mask to cover your eyes. This is a great way to ensure that you can get a good night’s sleep throughout the flight.

Your mask is also a good way to indicate to anyone else that you don’t want to be disturbed. 

9. Invest in a Quality Travel Pillow

You don’t want to get off your flight ready for your vacation with a stiff neck. This can be avoided if you invest in a quality travel pillow. 

You can buy one at the airport or order one online. The best ones can be blown up so you don’t need to constantly carry around a stuffed pillow with you.

You can learn more about the first time flying with this guide.

10. Something to Keep You Entertained

You’ll want to keep your mind occupied during the flight. There is usually a lot of waiting around at airports as well.

That’s why taking your smartphone may not be enough. Make sure you have something to read by taking a kindle or books.

You could also download movies on your tablet to watch during the flight. This will keep you from getting too bored.

How to be Prepared for First Time Flying?

Now you know our pro tips for getting prepared for your first time flying. You don’t want to get caught making common mistakes.

Flying around the world can be an amazing experience. You just don’t want to be too overwhelmed when you’re doing it for the first time.

Do you want to know more about travel? Check out everything you need to know on our website.