Stick To This List of 5 Air Travel Tips If You’re a First-Time Flyer

Traveling is fun and enjoyable, even on a business trip, because it takes you wherever you want. There’s the thrill of taking off into the air, traveling through the clouds during sunrise, and looking down from the sky on the landscape from your window seat. If you take the time to prepare and organize beforehand, your flight won’t be so stressful. Even if your trip is in a couple of weeks, commit all your time to the journey to make the experience unforgettable. After you take to the skies, the world is your oyster. Follow this checklist if you’re a first-time flyer. 

1.Research Your Destination Before Traveling

Before you head to an unknown destination, do your homework and find out everything there is to know about it. Familiarize yourself with the activities available so that you can plan your itinerary by googling attractions at your destination. Of course, you can grab a copy of a Lonely Planet guide, as it offers a multitude of tips. Figure out where you’re going to stay during your vacation and how you will get from the airport to your accommodation. Public transportation maps are available online, so it’s recommended to print out a map before you leave. If attractions are all spread out, opt for a central location, as close as possible to your transport option. If you have bulky or heavy luggage, consider exploring a luggage shipping service for a hassle-free travel experience.

Reading travel blogs is a good way to acquaint yourself with the destination. Blogs offer recommendations on the best hotels and ideas on what to see and do while you’re away from home. Find a blogger with a travel style, budget, and interests much like yours. You can learn everything about the experiences of people just like you on TripAdvisor. In case you didn’t already know, TripAdvisor is an online platform that collects countless opinions about businesses in the tourism industry (hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.). Simply put, you can figure out what’s best. 

2.Have A Valid Passport, And, Where Required, A Valid Visa 

As a rule, it’s necessary to have a valid passport if you want to travel abroad, so it’s the most important document for the trip. You can have multiple official identification documents, such as your national ID card or your driver’s license. Getting back on topic, a passport guarantees safe passage and protection in a foreign country. You don’t need to show your passport to pass through security at the airport, but you can if you wish to. Attention must be paid to the fact that many countries require a visa to pass through their borders. If you have a passport, the application process is straightforward. Maybe you hold more than one nationality. In that case, the law doesn’t require you to choose one citizenship or another. 

3.Book Airport Parking as Far in Advance as Possible 

When traveling, many people decide to park at the airport. Parking lots are typically located at a short driving distance from the main terminal and connected through a controlled walkway. Airport parking is very convenient, but that convenience comes at a price. At times, it can cost more than your airfare, so it’s advisable to book airport parking ahead of time. If you’re catching a flight out of Boston, book Logan Airport parking as far in advance as possible to get the best price and remove the potential stress that comes with parking on the day of departure. Research the options available using a comparison site. 

Booking airport parking is a simple procedure – all you need is an Internet connection and no more than 5 minutes. Hang on to your parking ticket because if you lose it, you’ll pay the penalty to get your vehicle out of the parking lot. If your car refuses to start, ask the parking lot cashier to call a supervisor because many airports have a jump-start service. When selecting parking, take into account your schedule, flight time, and itinerary. Proximity to the airport is another important consideration. For example, the area around JFK Airport accommodates many parking lots, so it takes a few minutes to get from a JFK parking lot to the airport. Maybe so, but every minute counts. 

4.Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On 

If you have truly irreplaceable things, such as prescription medicine, put them in your carry-on. Your must-haves and travel essentials should be close at hand, so decide ahead of time what to pack. You can pack some in-flight entertainment, like a pair of headphones, to keep boredom at bay. You’re allowed to bring wireless headphones in your carry-on luggage, but make sure to remove the headphones from your bag and place them in the bin for separate screening. There are several things you can’t pack in a carry-on bag, such as liquids/gels/pastes, sharp objects, electronic lighters, or spray paint. Surprisingly, you’re allowed to pack disposable razors, vapes/e-cigarettes, and knitting needles.  

5.Know How to Get Over Jet Lag 

Finally, yet importantly, know how to get over jet lag. A temporary sleep problem occurs when you quickly travel across more than 3 time zones because it alters your natural circadian rhythm. It causes daytime fatigue, stomach problems, and trouble staying alert. It’s a good idea to eat meals and go to bed according to the time at your destination. Exposure to sunlight will reduce the release of melatonin hormones that make you sleepy, so get outside in the sunshine. Sleep aids may be necessary to get over jet lag, but talk to your doctor before going to the pharmacy; discuss the pros and cons of each solution. 

Closing Thoughts 

If you’ve never traveled outside the country, there’s no better time than now to do it. Depending on your personality, the experience can be hard at first, but you’ll soon get over it. The anticipation of the start of the journey is more stressful than the actual trip. If you’re going to be on the plane for the first time ever, be prepared and know what to expect – it’s half the battle. So, now you know.