9 Tips for First Time Flyers in High School

Flying can be an intimidating experience, especially for first-time flyers going on a teen summer travel program. 

However, with a little preparation for what you can expect on a travel day on your way to your high school summer abroad destination, you’ll be set to tackle the airport like a pro.  

This list shares our top nine tips for first-time flyers for smooth and happy travels. 

1. Check the Airline’s Luggage Requirements 

Airlines have specific rules for luggage, and it’s important to research how many bags your airline and ticket class (economy or first class, for example) allow.  

Not only are you often limited to the number of bags you can take, but there are also rules for how big and heavy each bag can be. Every airline is different, but standard bag sizes are: 

• Personal item (placed under the seat in front of you): 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches, no weicght limit 
• Carry-on bag (placed in the overhead bins): 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, no weight limit or up to 30 pounds 
• Checked bags (placed beneath the plane): 30 inches by 20 inches by 12 inches or 62 inches total, up to 50 pounds  

Depending on your airline class, a carry-on or checked bag may need to be purchased separately. 

2. Make Sure You Have Your Passport and Travel Documents at All Times 

Before you can travel internationally, you’ll need to give yourself plenty of time to apply for a passport. A passport is mandatory to leave and enter the country, and you’ll want to make sure you don’t forget it at home, leave it behind on the plane, or lose it while abroad. 

It’s a good idea to have a copy of your passport identification page in case you lose it and need to apply for an emergency copy abroad. (In fact, take a picture of that passport page now if you can!) 

Depending on your destination, other essential travel documents you may need carry with you are a visa and another form of identification. 

3. Check-in Before Your Flight 

Before you travel, you must check into your flight with your airline. Airline check-in typically opens 24 hours (or sometimes even 48 hours) before departure and can be completed up to a few hours before your flight departs. You can check-in right from the airline’s app or at the airport before you fly. 

Checking in through the app the day before you fly can typically allow you to avoid long and slow check-in lines at the airpot. Plus, when you check in early, you can book airline extras if desired. 

4. Prepare for Security Screenings 

One of the most important airport tips for first-time flyers is understanding how to go through security. After you’ve checked in and dropped off your bags, a TSA or airport security agent will check your travel documents. 

Next, you’ll need to prepare for bag and passenger screening. You’ll need to: 

• Take off your shoes (This doesn’t happen at all airports, but you should be prepared to take them off if asked!) 
• Throw out any liquids larger than 3.4 ounces, including bottled water 
• Place travel-sized liquids that are 3.4 ounces or less in a clear quart-sized bag into one of the provided bins  
• Take out of your bag your large electronics like laptops, tablets, and e-readers 
• Empty your pockets and remove metal items like belts, smart watches, keys, coins, phones, etc.  

Now, you can push your bags through the x-ray and walk through the screening machine.  

If you’re traveling on a high school study abroad program, you’ll have an international flight. Often, after security, you’ll have to go through an additional checkpoint with an immigration officer who will inspect your passport and other necessary documents again.  

Be sure to listen to airport security's instructions. 

5. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On 

When traveling internationally, you'll want to pack everything you need for your long-haul flight.  

Here are some ideas for what to bring on a plane: 

• Ample snacks in case you get hungry or don’t like the provided meals  
• Tissues, cough drops, and other essential medicine 
• A reusable water bottle to fill up after security  
• A travel pillow and blanket  

Keep in mind that you are not allowed to bring certain items on a plane, such as sharp objects, flammable items, most plant and animal products, etc. 

6. Bring Plenty to Stay Entertained 

International flights can mean long hours in the air. So, coming prepared with ways to stay entertained will help you fight off boredom.  

You'll likely want to pack your headphones (pro tip: wired headphones may come in handy as the ones that the airline provides you to watch on-flight movies/series do not offer the greatest sound quality), tablet, a book or e-reader, laptop, portable video game console, and anything else to stay entertained. 

7. Download Everything You Need on Your Phone 

One of the easiest ways to stay organized while traveling is to download everything you need on your phone. You'll want to make sure you have the airline app downloaded, important phone numbers saved, copies of your travel documents stored, and screenshots of boarding passes and flight information in case the apps don't work on your travel day.  

It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger to ensure your phone is always charged and available when you need it! 

8. Dress Comfortably and Bring Layers 

Wearing something comfortable you can sleep in, such as loungewear or athletic gear, is key to ensuring comfort during your long flight.  

Airplane temperatures often shift from too hot to too cold, so bringing a sweater can help ensure you stay just rigcht while you fly. 

9. Arrive at the Airport Three (or Even Four) Hours Early for International Flights 

Giving yourself enough time at the airport ensures a stress-free and comfortable travel experience, especially when it's your first time flying! Arriving early ensures nothing stops you from missing your flight: not long check-in or bag drop lines, slow security queues, gate changes, or getting lost.  

For more information, check out this video on what to expect on your CIEE high school summer abroad travel day! 

Bonus: A Few More Tips Once You’re in the Air 

To avoid any surprises during your flight to your high school study abroad destination, these last airplane tips for first-time flyers will give you an idea of what to expect on board: 

• Long international flights usually include one to two food services (lunch and dinner) and a small snack. There are usually only two options. Those with dietary needs should pre-order a special meal. 
• Many international flights have the latest movies available, so if there’s a new movie you want to see, that’s something you can look forward to! 
• Some airlines offer Wi-Fi, buct you typically pay an additional fee to use it. 
• You're not allowed to walk around the cabin during takeoff and landing. 
• In case of turbulence, keep your seatbelt fastened and stay seated when the sign is on. 

Keep all the above tips handy and on your mind on the days leading up to your flight. We hope that they better prepare you for your once-in-a lifetime adventure!