Flying For The First Time? A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Flyers 

Traveloka Team
08 Feb 2025 - 4 min read

Flying For The First Time? A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Flyers

Just booked your first flight? Congratulations! A world of adventure awaits. However, as exciting as flying can be, stepping into an airport and navigating the intricacies of air travel for the first time may feel overwhelming. Not to worry! This guide will walk you through every step of your travel experience to ensure you have a smooth and stress-free first flight.

From booking your tickets to arriving at your destination, here’s everything you need to know to master the art of flying—and enjoy the process!

What Do You Need to Prepare Before Departure?

Proper preparation is key to making your first trip a breeze. Here’s what to do before the big day:

1. Book Your Flights Easily with Traveloka

No cumbersome paperwork or printed tickets are required! With the Traveloka app, booking your flight is effortless. Simply download the app, create an account, and search for flights that match your needs. Once selected, proceed with payment, and you’ll find your e-ticket safely stored in the app and sent to your email.

The best part? Traveloka frequently offers excellent promos! With these, you'll have a seamless booking experience and save on travel expenses.

2. Know Your Baggage Allowance

Each airline has specific baggage policies, and exceeding baggage limits can cost you extra. Traveloka provides detailed baggage allowance information on its search results page, ensuring you know exactly how much luggage you can carry for free.

Have you packed too much? Don’t worry—you can always add an extra baggage allowance during the booking process or directly at the airport. Plan so you won’t have any last-minute surprises!

3. Check Your Departure Terminal

Your departure terminal details will be clearly stated on your e-ticket in the Traveloka app. Airports like Singapore Changi Airport have multiple terminals, and ensuring you arrive at the correct one can save time and hassle.

Familiarise yourself with the layout of your departure airport and give yourself plenty of time to get there. It’ll make your day much less stressful.

4. Exchange Currency Before You Leave

Flying internationally? Ensure you have some local currency for your destination. Currency exchange rates at airports are often higher than elsewhere, so plan and exchange money at a trusted forex counter in the city before your flight. And for significant expenses, consider using a credit card—it’s secure and convenient.

It's Departure Day! What to Do Next

The day of your flight has finally arrived. Here’s what you must do to get through the airport and board your flight confidently.

5. Arrive Early

Arrive at the airport early to avoid the stress of rushing. For international flights, aim to be there 2-3 hours before departure. This gives you ample time to check in, pass security checks, and find your boarding gate.

6. Check-In with Your E-Ticket

Head to your airline's check-in counter when you arrive at the airport. Have your e-ticket (stored in the Traveloka app) and your identity card ready. Many airlines also offer online check-in 48 hours before your flight, which you can do using the PNR code on your e-ticket. Quick, easy, and hassle-free!

7. Pack Smart—Avoid Prohibited Items

Know what you can and cannot carry onto the plane. Items like sharp objects, liquids over 1000ml, and flammable substances are prohibited. Pack your essentials in your carry-on (within the airline’s weight limit, typically 7kg) and valuables like wallets, phones, and jewellery in one easy-to-carry bag.

8. Double-Check Your Departure Gate

Check your boarding pass or the airport monitors for information on your departure gate. Airports sometimes make last-minute changes, so watch the screens to avoid going to the wrong gate.

9. Follow Cabin Instructions

Once you’re on board, listen closely to the flight attendants' instructions. You’ll need to switch off your phone (or set it to aeroplane mode), fasten your seatbelt during takeoff, and abide by safety rules. These regulations are there to ensure everyone has a safe and pleasant flight.

Upon Arrival—What Happens Next?

Congratulations, you’ve landed at your destination! Here’s what to do before setting off on your adventure.

10. Wait to Turn On Your Phone

Switching your phone back on when you land may be tempting, but waiting until you’ve safely reached the airport terminal is best. This ensures the signals don’t interfere with the aircraft’s communication systems.

11. Collect Your Luggage

Once at the baggage carousel, match your flight number (displayed on the screens) with the number on your luggage tag to find the right belt. Check that you’ve collected all your belongings before heading to customs or immigration.

If your luggage is delayed or missing, report the issue immediately at the airline’s service counter.

Tips to Make Your First Flight Memorable

Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask airport staff if you’re unsure about anything.
Stay Calm: Travel can be unpredictable, but a calm approach will make problem-solving much easier.
Document the Journey: Snap some pictures, enjoy the airport vibe, and make this first flight one to remember!

Bon Voyage with Traveloka!

Flying for the first time is thrilling and nerve-wracking, but with proper planning and a trusty platform like Traveloka, you’re sure to have an incredible experience. Have you not booked your trip yet? Download Traveloka today and take the first step towards your next adventure. Book flights, find the perfect accommodation, and discover the best activities—all in one place. Make your travel dreams a reality with one of Asia’s leading booking platforms!

In This Article

• Flying For The First Time? A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Flyers
• What Do You Need to Prepare Before Departure?
• 1. Book Your Flights Easily with Traveloka
• 2. Know Your Baggage Allowance
• 3. Check Your Departure Terminal
• 4. Exchange Currency Before You Leave
• It's Departure Day! What to Do Next
• 5. Arrive Early
• 6. Check-In with Your E-Ticket
• 7. Pack Smart—Avoid Prohibited Items
• 8. Double-Check Your Departure Gate
• 9. Follow Cabin Instructions
• Upon Arrival—What Happens Next?
• 10. Wait to Turn On Your Phone
• 11. Collect Your Luggage
• Tips to Make Your First Flight Memorable
• Bon Voyage with Traveloka!
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