First-Time Traveler's Guide

Prior to Travel

There's plenty to do prior to arriving at the airport. Check out these other resources from Ed Abroad for help!Ìý

Navigating the Airport

Checking In

  • Arrive at the airport 3 hours in advance for international flights. If you receive a notification that your flight is delayed, you should still proceed to the airport as planned because it's still possible the flight will depart at the scheduled time.Ìý
  • You’ll likely be able to check in on your phone 24 hours in advance. For international flights, you may still need to show your passport at check in or at your gate.ÌýÌý

Baggage

  • Be familiar with weight limit requirements. Make sure your bag is labeled with your contact info, and take a picture of your luggage (this can help if it gets lost).ÌýÌý
  • If baggage isn’t included in the cost of your ticket, it’s usually cheaper to pay for this in advance.ÌýÌý
  • Your checked bags will be weighed and tagged, either at the check-in desk or by you at a self-service kiosk. Bags will usually go all the way to your destination, but be sure to check. Some countries require you to get your baggage during a layover and re-check it before your next flight. If you booked the legs of your flight separately, you’ll likely need to recheck your bag as well.ÌýÌý
  • For carry-on items, most flights you are limited to one personal item (like a purse or backpack) and one carryon (such as a duffel or small roller-bag). Discount airlines may allow fewer items. Be sure to check the dimensions allowed by the airline to avoid additional fees!Ìý

Security Screening

  • The is the airport security agency in the U.S. Regulations and processes may be different when you arrive abroad.ÌýÌý
  • You will need your boarding pass and passport/Real ID (if domestic) to pass through security. Take them out of your bag while you are in line, and secure them in your belongings as soon as you pass through security.ÌýÌý
  • Unless you have TSA pre-check or CLEAR, you’ll need to remove any laptop or tablet from your bag and put it in a separate bin for screening. Liquids must meet TSA requirements and also need to be removed for screening.ÌýÌý
  • You can bring an empty water bottle through security, and fill it up for your flight once you’ve cleared security.ÌýÌý
  • You’ll likely need to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket and put them in their own bin while you walk through the security scanner.ÌýÌý
  • If your bag is pulled for additional screening, follow instructions provided by the TSA agent.ÌýÌý

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Boarding the Flight

  • After security, you’ll need to find your gate. This is on your boarding pass, but gates can change. It’s a good idea to double check your gate on the monitors and sign up for airline notifications if available.Ìý
  • Some international airports don’t post gate assignments until close to boarding time, so pay attention to the monitors until your gate is confirmed.Ìý
  • Be to your gate prior to the boarding time listed on your boarding ticket. Flights usually start boarding about an hour before international flights. Doors close 30 minutes before departure, at which point no one else is allowed on the flight. Be sure to get there plenty early!ÌýÌý
  • If you experience a delay or cancellation, visit the ticketing counter or your airline’s customer service. Some airlines will give you the option to change your flight right in their app. Notify your program if you will be delayed.Ìý

On the Plane

  • Space is tight! You’ll need to put your carryon in the overhead bin, and your personal item must fit entirely under the seat in front of you.ÌýÌý
  • You’re required to stay seated anytime the seatbelt sign is on. This is usually the first and last 30-45 minutes, and during turbulence.ÌýÌý
  • General etiquette suggests the middle seat gets use of both armrests.ÌýÌý
  • Follow instructions from the flight attendants for when it is allowed to use the bathroom, recline your seat, and use electronics.ÌýÌý
  • Avoid reclining your seat during meal service.ÌýÌý
  • Double check that your flight includes a meal. Even so, bring snacks and a full water bottle.Ìý

Arriving at your Final Destination

  • After you get off the plane, you will proceed to customs and immigration (international) or baggage claim (domestic).ÌýÌý
  • Immigration – You'll likely have to go through passport control where you will present your passport to the agent and answer questions about your purpose of travel.ÌýÌý
  • Customs – You’ll likely need to fill out a declaration form (this may be electronic). Review prohibited items before traveling. If you have nothing to declare, you may not need to stop at customs.Ìý
    • Be sure to check for prohibited items when returning with gifts or souvenirs from abroad.ÌýÌý
  • Baggage Claim – Locate the carousel for your flight. This is usually announced before you deplane, and shown on screens throughout baggage claim. Double check that your luggage is yours as many bags look the same. If your luggage is missing, report it to an airline agent for help before you leave the airport.Ìý

  • Follow instructions provided by your program to leave the airport, and do not use unofficial taxis.ÌýÌý

  • If you didn’t arrive with local currency, it’s a good idea to get a little at the airport as a backup, though you’ll likely get a better rate in town.ÌýÌý