Flying for the First Time? Start Here!
First time flight can be dreamy as we expect surreal experiences and get excited.
But the process of getting one can be confusing. For mitigating this kind of time we need to do basic things so there is no room for mistakes.
Here, I am incorporating easy tips for first time flyers. From the first step of booking flights to overall journey and small things that people oversee. But for newbies it will be a lifesaver.
Let’s start from the start!
Flying is fun, but many first-timers feel nervous about the process. That’s completely normal and very common for beginners. This guide is made to help you feel relaxed and prepared.
Every small tip here is based on real travel experience. If you read till the end, your first trip will be stress-free. Many people get confused with booking, packing, or even airport entry.
We will go step-by-step to make it easier. No need to worry about big words or technical terms here. Everything is explained in a simple and friendly way.
You will learn what to do before and during your flight. You will also know what mistakes to avoid at any step. From booking to boarding, we have got you covered. Even if you are traveling alone, this guide will help. We want you to fly confidently and enjoy your journey.
Flying is a beautiful experience when you are well-prepared. Let’s make sure your first flight becomes a happy memory. So sit back, relax, and let’s get started together.
A little preparation brings a lot of peace and confidence. Ready for take off? Let’s begin your journey smoothly!
First comes booking of flights
How to Book a Flight Ticket?
Booking a flight for the first time can feel confusing. But with the right steps, it’s very simple.
There are mainly two easy ways to book your ticket.
1. Booking Through a Travel Agency (Easy Option)
If you are unsure, use a trusted travel agency like Gomayu Holidays. They help find the best flight for your date and destination. You don’t need to search or compare hundreds of flights.
Just tell them your travel plan, and they’ll handle everything for you. From checking flight timings to the number of stops, they do it all. They also compare prices to match your budget and comfort.
You can ask them about baggage rules, meals, and other services too. If you are in a group, you may get a discount. They also help with seat selection, special meal requests, or extra baggage.
Travel agency support is helpful, especially if you need last-minute changes. Even after booking, they are available for 24/7 help. This option is stress-free and beginner friendly.
2. Booking Online (Do It Yourself)
You can visit airline websites or flight booking platforms. Enter your travel dates, destination, and number of passengers. Compare flights by time, price, and airline easily.
Select your preferred flight and move to payment. Use a debit card, credit card, or eSewa to pay. After payment, you’ll get a confirmation email with your ticket. Save or print this ticket for future use.
If you are unsure, go with the travel agency. They’ll guide you and make your first flight easy. The main goal is booking safely and smoothly without mistakes.
After Booking: Check Confirmation Email
Once your flight ticket is booked, you will get a confirmation email. This email is very important for your entire journey. It contains all your flight information in one place. Always check your email after booking, even in the spam folder.
Inside the confirmation email, you will find a PNR number. PNR means Passenger Name Record: your flight booking reference code. You’ll also see your flight number, date, and time listed clearly. The departure and arrival airports are mentioned with terminal information. If it’s an international flight, also check the airline terminal name.
Make sure all the details in the email are correct. Check your name spelling, date, time, and destination once again. If there is a mistake, contact the travel agency or airline quickly. Small errors can cause big issues during check-in time.
It’s a good idea to take a screenshot of the ticket. Also, keep a printed copy if your phone is not charged. You will need the ticket during airport entry and check-in. Without this confirmation, you won’t be allowed to enter the airport.
Some airlines also send a mobile version of the boarding pass. This may be available only after online check-in. So for now, focus on saving your ticket safely.
You can also use the PNR number to track your flight status. Flight delays or gate changes can be checked using this code.
So, don’t forget to double-check everything after booking. Your confirmation email is your first step towards a smooth journey!
Keep Your Passport or ID Ready
Documents are very important when you are taking a flight. Without a proper ID, you cannot enter the airport.
For international flights, a valid passport is required. Make sure your passport is not expired. Check the expiry date before booking any ticket.
For domestic flights (inside your own country), a passport is not needed. In Nepal, you can use your citizenship ID for domestic flights. Other valid options include driving license or voter ID card.
Make sure the name on your ID matches your flight ticket. Even a small spelling mistake can create problems during check-in. Carry the original ID, not just a photo or copy.
It’s best to keep your ID in your handbag or front pocket. This makes it easy to show when needed. You will need it at the airport gate, check-in counter, and security check. If you misplace it, you may miss your flight.
If you are traveling internationally, carry visa documents, if required. Also keep a photocopy of your passport for extra safety. Take a photo of your passport and save it on your phone too.
Avoid keeping important documents in checked luggage. Always keep them with you in your hand carry.
Before you leave home, double-check your passport or ID. Make sure it is packed in a safe and easy-to-reach place.
Your travel document is your key to flying. Without it, your journey cannot even begin. So keep it ready and travel without stress.
Reach Airport On Time (2–3 Hours Early)
Always reach the airport early to avoid any stress. For international flights, reach 3 hours before flight time. For domestic flights, 2 hours early is usually enough.
Airports are busy places with many people and long lines. You need enough time for every step before boarding.
First, you have to enter the airport gate. Security staff will check your ticket and ID. After that, go to the check-in counter for luggage drop and boarding pass. Check-in can take time, especially during peak hours.
Once check-in is done, go to the security check area. You must show your ID and boarding pass again.
You will be asked to remove your belt, shoes, and electronics. Bags and bodies will go through security scanning.
After the security check, you’ll walk to your boarding gate. Sometimes gates are far, so it takes extra time. If your gate changes, you must follow the new instructions.
Boarding usually starts 30 to 45 minutes before the flight. If you are late, you might miss your flight. Airlines do not wait for late passengers.
Extra time helps you relax and avoid rushing. You can also use the toilet, eat snacks, or charge your phone.
Reaching early also gives time for last-minute help. If any issue comes up, staff can assist you.
So, always plan to leave your home early. Traffic, weather, or other delays can happen anytime.
Remember: early arrival gives you peace of mind. It’s better to wait than to panic and miss your flight.
Know the Luggage Rules Before Packing
Packing correctly makes your airport and flight experience smooth. Every airline has rules about bag size and weight. So always check your airline’s baggage rules before flying.
You can carry two types of bags during flights:
- Hand Carry
- Check-in Bag
Hand Carry (Carry-On Bag)
This bag stays with you inside the airplane. It usually goes in the cabin above your seat. Most airlines allow up to 7 kg as hand carry.
Size should be small enough to fit in overhead space. Keep your important items like documents, medicine, phone, and chargers inside. Also include snacks, wallet, headphones, and a light jacket.
But remember, you cannot carry liquids over 100ml in hand carry. Also avoid sharp objects like scissors, nail cutters, or knives. These items will be taken out during the security check.
Check-In Bag (Main Luggage)
This bag goes in the airplane storage section. You will give this bag at the airline counter. Most airlines allow 15 to 30 kg depending on the route. Heavier bags may need extra charges, so check your limit.
Don’t pack valuables or documents in the check-in bag. Also avoid packing breakable items like glass bottles or electronics here.
Use a bag tag with your name and phone number. This helps in case the bag gets lost.
Always pack smart and light for an easier journey. Knowing baggage rules can save you time and money. Proper packing means fewer problems and more peace while traveling!
Do Online Check-In If Available
Online check-in is a smart and easy step before your flight. Most airlines offer online check-in before your travel day. Usually, it opens 24 to 48 hours before the flight.
You can check in from your mobile or computer. Just visit the airline’s website or use their mobile app. Enter your booking reference number (PNR) and last name. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
Online check-in lets you do many helpful things early. You can choose your seat and confirm your travel details. Some airlines even allow you to request meals or add baggage.
After completing the process, your boarding pass will be ready. You can download it as a PDF or save it to your phone. Some apps also store it inside your booking section.
Having the boarding pass in advance saves time at the airport. You can skip long check-in lines if you don’t have check-in baggage. Just go directly to the security check and boarding gate.
If you have a check-in bag, still visit the airline counter. Just drop your bag, show your online boarding pass, and move on.
Not all airlines allow online check-in for every country. So check if your airline and route support it. Also, some airlines may require document verification at the airport.
Make sure your phone is charged to show your boarding pass. Or take a screenshot or printout just in case.
Online check-in makes travel faster, easier, and less stressful. Use it when possible and enjoy a smooth airport experience!
Be Ready for Security Check
Security check is a must for all flyers before boarding the plane. You must pass through security to enter the flight gate. It can feel stressful, but it’s easy if you’re prepared.
At security, officers will check your body and your bags. You will walk through a scanner after placing items in a tray. Before entering the queue, remove metal items from your body.
Take off your belt, watch, jacket, and cap if you’re wearing them. Put these items in the tray for scanning. Your shoes may also need to be removed at some airports.
If you’re carrying a laptop, take it out of your bag. Place the laptop in a separate tray for clear scanning. Also remove power banks and large electronics from your bag.
Liquids like water bottles, creams, or gels must be under 100ml. Put these liquids inside a transparent plastic bag. Keep them in hand carry only if they meet rules.
Security staff may ask questions or request extra checking. Answer politely and follow their instructions with calm behavior.
Once scanning is done, collect all your items quickly. Check your tray carefully so you don’t forget anything. Wear your belt, shoes, and jacket again after the check.
If you need help, ask the staff nearby. They are there to guide you through the process.
Security checks are important for your safety and everyone’s safety. It might take time, but it’s a normal part of flying.
Stay calm, be polite, and follow the rules. Then you’ll pass the security check without any problem!
Gate and Seat Number on Your Boarding Pass
Your boarding pass is a very important paper or digital ticket for your flight. It is given after online or airport check-in.
Your boarding pass shows your seat number and gate number clearly. Seat number tells where you will sit inside the plane. Gate number tells where to go to board your flight.
Airports are big, and there are many boarding gates. Each gate connects to a different flight or airline. You must go to the correct gate for your flight.
The gate number is printed on your boarding pass. But sometimes, gate numbers can change at the last minute. So, always keep checking the display screens at the airport.
Flight information like gate number and boarding time is updated there. Look for your flight number on the screen, not just the destination. Flight numbers are unique and written on your boarding pass too.
If your gate has changed, follow signs to the new gate. Airports have clear directions to guide you easily.
Go to the gate at least 30–40 minutes before boarding. Some gates may take 10–15 minutes to reach, so don’t be late.
At the gate, staff will check your boarding pass again. They may also check your passport or ID one more time.
Once boarding starts, passengers are called in groups or rows. Listen to the announcements and board when your group is called.
If you’re unsure, ask airport staff for help. They will guide you to the right place.
Boarding pass is your final key to enter the flight. So check it carefully and stay alert for gate updates!
Ask Help from Cabin Crew on First Time Flight
Once you board the flight, you’ll see airline staff inside the plane. These staff members are called cabin crew or flight attendants. They are there to help and guide all passengers during the flight.
If this is your first time flying, tell them clearly. Just say, “I’m flying for the first time. Please help me if needed.” Cabin crew are friendly and well-trained to support beginners.
They will show you how to find your seat. If you can’t lift your bag, they’ll help you. They will also explain seatbelt rules or anything you don’t understand.
Before take-off, cabin crew will give safety instructions. Listen carefully to know what to do in emergencies. Don’t feel shy to ask questions if anything is unclear.
They will also give food, water, or snacks during the flight. If you need extra water, tissues, or a blanket, just ask politely. Use the call button above your seat to get their attention.
If your ears hurt due to air pressure, inform them. They may offer tips or something to help with comfort.
In case of any health issue, cabin crew will assist quickly. They are trained to handle many situations on board.
You don’t need to know everything, just stay calm and ask. Cabin crew want every passenger to have a safe journey.
Being polite and respectful is always a good idea. They will respond kindly if you ask nicely.
Remember, you’re not alone on your first flight. Help is always near, just ask without hesitation.
Candy or Chewing Gum for Ear Pressure
During a flight, your ears may feel blocked or uncomfortable. This usually happens during take-off or landing time.
The cause is a change in air pressure inside the airplane. Your ears may feel heavy, or you may hear a popping sound. Sometimes, this pressure can even cause slight pain.
This is normal, especially for first-time flyers. But don’t worry there’s a simple way to feel better.
Chewing candy or chewing gum helps reduce the ear pressure naturally. When you chew, your jaw moves and opens your ear passage. This movement helps balance the pressure inside your ears.
You can also try yawning or swallowing slowly to relieve the feeling. Drinking water slowly during take-off or landing also helps. If you are carrying a baby, give them a pacifier or milk.
You can carry a few candies in your hand. Take one before the plane takes off and before landing starts.
Some people prefer chewing gum instead of candy. Both work well, so use whichever you like.
If your ears still feel blocked, pinch your nose and blow gently. This trick often helps open your ears quickly.
Ear pressure usually goes away after landing. If not, it will ease in a few hours.
You can also use earplugs designed for flying. These are available in pharmacies and reduce pressure problems.
Ear pressure is normal and nothing to fear. With a little preparation, you can fly more comfortably.
So, don’t forget to pack candy or gum. It’s a small item that makes a big difference!
Stay Calm and Enjoy the First Flight
Flying for the first time feels exciting, but also a little scary. Don’t worry it gets easier with every flight. Once you’re seated, take a deep breath and relax. You’ve completed the hard part now it’s time to enjoy it.
Look out of the window and enjoy the sky view. Clouds, landscapes, and cities from above look magical and peaceful. Flying gives you a new and beautiful perspective of the world.
Use the time in the air to rest your body. Close your eyes, stretch a little, or read a book.
You can also listen to music or watch in-flight entertainment. Some flights offer free movies, games, or music on screens.
Don’t forget to drink water during the flight. Cabin air is dry and can make you feel tired.
Follow all safety instructions and wear your seatbelt when needed. This keeps you safe in case of small air movements.
If you feel nervous, talk to the cabin crew. They will comfort and assist you with a smile.
Sometimes, the plane may shake a little, this is called turbulence. It’s normal and not dangerous, so stay calm and seated.
Be polite to others and keep your seat area clean. A good attitude makes your flight and others’ better too.
Your first flight will soon become a happy memory. Next time, you will feel more confident and relaxed.
Flying is safe, fun, and a big part of travel. So sit back, smile, and enjoy your first flight!
Gomayu Holidays Support for First-Time Flyers
Flying for the first time? Don’t worry, we are always here to help you. Gomayu Holidays offers 24/7 support before, during, and even after your journey.
We make sure your first flying experience is smooth and stress-free. You don’t need to search or plan everything on your own.
We help with flight booking, seat selection, and meal requests. Need help with visa application or travel insurance? We’ve got you covered.
Our team explains every step clearly and in simple words. We guide you from your home to your flight seat.
For group bookings, we offer special discounts and customized help. We arrange airport pickup and drop for your full comfort.
Traveling with family or children? We make special arrangements for smooth check-in and seating. We’re also happy to answer any small or big question anytime. Even during your trip, we stay available in case you need help.
Our goal is to give you full confidence during your journey. You don’t have to worry, we take care of the details.
Many first-time travelers trust us for their first experience in the air. With Gomayu Holidays, your first flight becomes safe, easy, and joyful.
Let us help you take off with peace and confidence! Your journey starts with one message to Gomayu Holidays.
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