Flying for the first time? Tips and what you should expect

Trust me doing anything for the first time could pose sort of a challenge, whether it’s driving a vehicle, trying out a new recipe or having to hold a baby. Doing anything new particularly outside your regular ‘culture’ could make you feel nervous and unsure.
Aviophobia: the fear of flying is something a lot of first time flyers experience, and it’s absolutely normal for you to feel a bit of anxiety.

“Throughout 2016, a total of 15,232,597 travelers passed through Nigerian Airports. 72% of these were domestic travelers, travelling within Nigeria and the 28% left were international, arriving or departing Nigeria. The number of air travelers increased by 6.3% between 2015 & 2016 as recorded by the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria(FAAN)” ~proshareng.com

The increase in first time air travelers has proven air transport to be the safest, your first time flying doesn’t have to be so stressful or scary. This is why I have put together this post to help you prepare for your first flight from my personal experience and that of others I researched.

SEE: My first time on board an airplane

    HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST FLIGHT

An average of 8 million people fly daily and at one point or another they have all been a first-time flyer, who really didn’t know what to expect. Flying could be fun as long as you are prepared.

Purchase a Ticket

First things first, you have to buy a flight ticket. A lot of people find it easier and cheaper to purchase tickets on an online travel site. Alternatives are to use a travel agent or call the airline directly.

You need a valid ID

A valid and current photo ID will be required when checking in and when moving through security, to be sure what form of ID is acceptable visit the airline’s website. In my own experience of domestic travels across Nigeria; a valid international passport, or national identity card or a voter’s card is acceptable.
Except it’s an international flight, an international passport is mandatory. Also be sure to find out if there are other travel documents that would be needed such as a Visa.

Pack your bags well

In my own experience of domestic flights, 50kg is the load space allocated to each passenger and if your luggage weighs more you would be charged more. In the US for instance most airlines charge you every bag you need to check starting at $25 and as much as $100 for additional bags.
It is also important that you check the airline’s website for luggage restrictions. This is also the part you want to double and triple check to make sure you don’t leave any  necessary item.

 Airport 2-3 hours ahead of your flight time

Most airlines regulations require that you have checked in by 30 minutes before your flight departure time. A faster way to check in when you have just a hand luggage is to check in online with your smartphone, this will help you skip the check-in process sending you straight to security.

Helpful stuff to carry along for a long flight:

Headphones
Hold some snacks along with you
Hand sanitizer
Fluid preferably water, stay away from alcohol
A travel pillow
Vitamin C
Comfy flip flops
Moisturizer
Sleep mask

HOW DOES IT FEEL LIKE TO FLY ON A PLANE FOR THE FIRST TIME?

Flying for the first time can be daunting or even exhausting, however knowing what to do expect would help you make your trip much more comfortable and easy.

Check in

Follow the signs and directions they would lead you to the check-in area of your airline. Here your boarding pass and luggage tag is printed.

Pass through security

Depending on the country and how their process is, basically you would be made to show the TSA agent your boarding pass and photo ID, then you would have your belongings scanned.

Approach your flight gate

To be sure of your flight gate, check the electronic displays it has all the updated information.

Board and Locate your seat

As soon as you board your flight quickly locate your seat, so others can board also. Place your hand luggage, carry-on or personal belonging in the compartment over you or preferably under the seat in front of you.

Safety Demonstration

Right after everyone is seated the flight attendants would start a safety demonstration-where the life jackets and emergency exits are located, also how to correctly put on an oxygen mask. Don’t be scared! It is likely you would not be needing them. The law just requires airlines to give air travelers this information.

Relish the rest of the flight

As soon as the plane gets airborne and reaches a cruising altitude, the flight attendants would serve food and drinks of which content varies depending on the length of your flight and always remember to be strapped in.

Landing

Near the end of your flight the flight crew will make announcements to get you ready for landing, keep your seats belts on even after the plane has landed. Wait for the seatbelt sign to be off before getting out of your seat. Grab your stuff and head for the exit.
If it is an international flight you would have to get your passport stamped by Immigration, then proceed to get your baggage and head for Customs.

Conclusion

Flying for the first time can make you nervous, however I hope this guide has prepared you to an extent of what to expect. Flying is fun! Trust me!
I should also add that all the information shared here is subject to change, it is important you stay abreast of current air travel policies.