Going For Your First Flight? Here's Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Takeoff + My Experience

After months of preparing your documents and finally booking your ticket, the big day is here. Flight Day! But now, a big mountain has risen that many of us worry about: what to expect at the airport and how to pack without drama. In this blog post, I break down, step-by-step, once again, what happens on flight day, to ensure your experience is smooth and you can navigate through the airport like a pro.

Step One: The Night Before: What & How to Pack (And How to Avoid Luggage Drama)

When booking your flight, airlines usually specify the maximum weight of luggage that will be allowed in the cabin and that which will go into the plane's cargo hold. Checked baggage goes into the plane's cargo hold, while hand luggage/carry-on luggage is the luggage you take with you into the cabin. Here’s how to handle both:

All Packed and ready to go!

Carry-On (Hand Luggage)

This is the luggage that goes in the overhead cabin that's located above the airplane seats. For this, I recommend a large tote bag, a backpack, or a small suitcase. The weight limit is usually 7-10 kg, and it's important to ensure that it fits in the overhead cabin. It has plenty of space; therefore, with this weight limit, there should be no trouble having your luggage fit in there.

• Must-Haves in your Carry-On

  • Travel documents (passport, visa, boarding pass, ID)

  • Power bank, phone + charger

  • A pen (you may need to fill in forms)

  • A change of clothes (a t-shirt or extra underwear) + basic toiletries (just in case your checked bag is delayed or lost)

  • Headphones, snacks (dry snacks such as cookies, peanuts), a book, or pre-downloaded movies/series/podcasts. There's in-flight entertainment, but I recommend bringing your own.😆

    
    

• Liquids Rule: All liquids, gels, creams, must be under 100ml each, and packed in a clear ziplock bag. Place your full-size beauty/hygiene items in your checked luggage.

  
  

• What NOT to carry: Sharp objects such as scissors or nail cutters. Full-size liquids, and aerosols like spray deodorants.

  
  

Checked Luggage

This is the luggage that goes into the plane's cargo hold. Most airlines allow a maximum of two suitcases with a weight limit of 20-23kg for each suitcase. It is best to weigh your luggage before leaving for the airport, because if it goes beyond the limit, you may be charged extra. You can use a normal weighing scale for this, or stand on the scale and measure your weight, then measure yourself carrying your luggage. The difference is your luggage's weight.

In this luggage, pack everything else, like your clothes, shoes, full-size beauty/hygiene products, gifts/souvenirs.

Step Two: Getting to the Airport

Now that the luggage is packed and weighed, it's time to head to the airport.

For international flights, it is recommended to be at the airport three hours before your flight's departure time. This will give you adequate time to go through all the checks and have sufficient time before boarding.

Step Three: What Happens at the Airport

1. Checking in Online & Terminal Confirmation:

   Before you head to the airport, your flight ticket will specify the terminal you need to alight at. For example, at JKIA, international departures are at Terminal 1A. This is very important as alighting at the wrong terminal may cause delay and confusion. In case you're lost, ask the security personnel to direct you.

2. Entry Check: 

   After dropping off at the terminal, you may need to carry your luggage at the entrance. At times, you will find a trolley to easily push your luggage to the entrance, or someone may offer to help you (at a cost, of course lol). You will join the line of passengers, and you may be asked to show your passport and ticket or boarding pass (both of which you can print out) to be allowed entry.

3. Check-In Counter: 

   Once you're allowed entry, you will place both your checked luggage and hand luggage through the scanner; this is the first check. You will then look for your airline's check-in desk and follow the line. Once you reach the teller, they will ask for your passport, confirm your booking, and print out your boarding pass, which will specify your gate (this is where you'll wait to board your flight). Your checked luggage will also be weighed to ensure it is within the limit. You may be allowed to transfer some items from one bag to the other to distribute the weight and meet the limit; otherwise, you'd need to pay extra. Your checked luggage will proceed to the plane's cargo hold, and you will proceed with your hand luggage. You will see your checked luggage again once you arrive at your destination.

4. Immigration: 

   This is where you’ll show your passport and visa., Here, they may ask the reason for your visit and a few brief questions. Ensure you have all your documentation in print or on your phone to ensure you're ready to provide any information they may ask. They will take your biometrics, stamp your passport and this is when you'll proceed to security.

   If you're in JKIA, this is where the 'Kwaheri Kenya' signage is. Snap a few photos and videos for memories. Considering this was my first flight, I couldn't miss doing this!

   

   'Kwaheri Kenya!'

5. Security Screening:

   At security, you will place your hand luggage in a plastic bin. If you have carried your laptop or any device, place it in a separate bin by itself, then the conveyor belt will pass the items through the scanner. As mentioned before, sharp items and aerosol sprays are not allowed, all liquids have to be measured 100ml or below, and stored in a clear ziplock bag. In some airports, you may need to remove your shoes, belts and heavy jewelry. After you pass through the body scanner, and your luggage passes through the scanner, you can pick it up and proceed to your boarding gate.

6. Boarding Gate: 

   On your boarding pass, the boarding gate will be indicated. This is where you'll wait to board your flight. There are plenty of signs to direct you, plus you can ask the airport security staff for help. As you approach the gate, you may see duty-free shops. In these shops, they sell items like perfumes, souvenirs, chocolates, sweets, clothing, food, and drinks. They are quite expensive, but if you need a last-minute souvenir or a quick bite before you board the plane, this is your chance to.

   After you get to the gate, take a seat and wait to be called. Boarding usually starts 30–45 minutes before takeoff.

7. Onboard:

   Okay, so now you've made it to the plane! Find your seat by looking at the seat number above the seats. Once you find it, store your hand luggage in the overhead bin and your personal item under the seat in front of you. You may grab a book or an entertainment device from your luggage so that you don't have to keep standing up. Let your loved ones know that you're on board and will be taking off soon, buckle up, and take a deep breath to savor this moment. You’ve made it!

8. During The Flight:

   After settling into your plane seat, you will hear an announcement from the pilot, briefing you about the flight, weather, timings, and any additional information. The flight attendants will then demonstrate to you how to tie your seatbelt and how to put on your oxygen mask and life vest in case of an emergency. The plane will then start the 'taxi'. This is when it moves along the airport and the runway to gain momentum for takeoff.

   When the plane takes off, you'll feel a slight push, and your ears will feel briefly blocked, but before you know it, you're gliding through the clouds.

   During the flight, you will be served meals, according to the airline. On my first flight, since it was an early morning one, I got breakfast, a snack, and lunch. It was quite filling, I even felt like I overate! You can also walk along the aisle to stretch your legs, go to the washroom, and ask the flight attendants for any assistance.

   

   The view from above the sky :)

   

   My breakfast

   

   My airplane snack

   

   My Lunch

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Airport Check-in & Flight

• Arrive early. For international flights, you need to be at the airport three hours before takeoff. This gives you enough time to go through the checks and deal with any emergent issues accordingly.

• If you need help at the airport, ALWAYS ask airport staff ONLY. Scammers and people with ill intentions also exist at the airport.

• NEVER allow a stranger to leave their luggage with you. They may be trying to ferry illegal items, and if caught, you'll be the one in trouble.

• Wear a comfortable outfit and minimal jewelry for ease during security checks.

• Dress warmly as the plane can be cold, especially for long flights.

• Stay hydrated with water, lip balm, and hand cream. Cabin air is dry and cold. I had to apply and reapply my lip balm multiple times during the flight.

My Vaseline Lip Therapy balm came in very handy. I highly recommend!

Final Thoughts

I can finally say that I have not only been on a plane, but also crossed multiple international borders. This blog post is for anyone looking to have a smooth first flying experience. Equipped with the right info, as is in this blog post, you'll navigate through the airport like a pro, even as a first-time flyer, like I was.

Remember to like, comment, and share this blog post with anyone who'd benefit from it.

Till next post,

Miss Kambe.