Flying for the first time can be an extremely nerve wracking experience. So in order to make your first time as pleasant and relaxed as possible, we have put together some of our top tips!
Be Prepared
Being prepared is a key part of having a pleasant and relaxing trip through the airport and flight. In order to be prepared for your travels, use a folder to keep all of your important documents together - you passport, your EHIC (if necessary), your boarding pass, visa information, hotel documentation, travel insurance documentation. Keeping your important documents in a folder prevents them from becoming lost or damaged.
Allow Plenty of Time
Ensure you allow enough time to not have to rush through the airport. You will need to arrive at the airport a couple of hours before your plane is set to take off, so that you can check-in, get through security, and find your departure lounge. It is important to allow additional time, in case there are any queues, or other hold-ups.
Additional time will also need to be allowed if you intend to eat before flying, or do some Duty Free shopping.
Luggage
In order to have as little disruption as possible when at the airport, you should ensure the size and weight of both your luggage, and your hand luggage, as well as the items inside them, fit to the abide by the airline’s requirements.
Be sure to weigh your luggage before heading to the airport, in order to avoid any unexpected luggage fees. Different airlines have different rules as to going over your luggage allowance, so it is important to research the rules of the airline you are travelling with, before flying.
You should check your hand luggage before arriving at the airport for any prohibited items. Prohibited items vary across the world, with some of the main items being: knives; acid; explosives; razor blades etc.
All of your liquids in your hand luggage should be less than 100 ml and placed in a transparent bag, which are often provided by the airports. As well as liquids, your electricals in your hand luggage, including cameras, laptops, tablets, and speakers, must also be put through security separately for scanning.
Pay Close Attention to the Safety Demo
Ensure you play close attention to the safety demonstration carried out by the cabin crew. Listening to the safety demonstration will inform you with crucial information on the nearest exits, how to exit the aircraft appropriately if it were to have to make an unplanned landing; where your life jacket is located etc. Even though unexpected landing and accidents are highly unlikely when flying, listening to the demo will ensure you are well prepared for every situation.
Turbulence is Totally Normal
Flying is known as one of the safest forms of travelling, with airplanes becoming more and more advanced. However when flying, turbulence can be a scary and uncomfortable experience, even for frequent flyers. Defined by Merriam-Webster.com, turbulence is an “irregular atmospheric motion especially when characterised by up-and-down currents.” But you shouldn’t worry too much! Turbulence is a normal occurrence on flights, and pilots can often see where turbulence may occur.
Just remember, planes are designed to deal with turbulence!
Travel Insurance is Key
Travel insurance is a key part in any trip. Not only will it cover you for medical emergencies, but it can also cover you for trip cancellation, loss of belongings, and even trip delays, before you’ve even set foot in your destination. Travel insurance is a relatively small cost when set against the overall price of a trip, for a lot of protection should things go wrong. Have a worry free holiday, knowing that you are covered! Don’t forget, you can get your travel insurance from Direct Travel at either www.direct-travel.co.uk or ring our friendly UK based team on 0330 880 3600.
Don’t forget, you can get your travel insurance from DirectTravel at either www.direct-travel.co.uk or ring our friendly team on 0330 880 3600.