Flying by Plane Step by Step – A Guide for Beginners
Before the Flight – Preparing at Home
A well-planned journey begins even before you leave the house. The earlier you get ready for your flight, the more relaxed your adventure will start—especially if you’re traveling with children. Here are the most important things to check and prepare:
✅ Check Your Documents
Make sure you have all the necessary documents:
ID cards or passports – check their expiration dates.
Plane tickets or booking confirmations – having them on your phone is usually enough, but it’s good to carry a printed copy too.
Boarding passes – these can often be downloaded online in advance, saving time at the airport.
🪑 Seat Reservation
If possible, book your seats ahead of time, especially if you're flying with children and want to sit together. Many airlines allow you to choose seats during online check-in, usually 24–48 hours before departure.
🧳 Packing
Think about what to put in your checked luggage and what to keep in your carry-on. Pack larger and less essential items in your checked bag. In your carry-on, it’s a good idea to have:
Documents, money, phone, and charger
A change of clothes (especially for kids)
Medications and hygiene products
Snacks and drinks (purchased after security check)
🎒 Entertainment and Snacks for Kids
A long trip and waiting at the airport can be boring for little ones. Prepare:
Coloring books, small storybooks, simple games – lightweight and easy to pack
A tablet or phone with cartoons (don’t forget the headphones!)
Healthy snacks – e.g., sliced fruit, granola bars, crackers
A water bottle (filled after passing through security)
What Can You Take in Your Carry-On Bag?
Your carry-on bag is your travel companion on board the plane, so it’s important to pack it wisely to have everything you might need during the flight within reach. However, airlines have restrictions on the size, weight, and contents of carry-on luggage, so knowing the rules can help you avoid issues at the airport.
📏 Carry-On Size and Weight Limits
Standard carry-on limits vary by airline, but they usually fall within:
Dimensions: about 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm
Weight: between 7 and 10 kg
Check your airline’s specific guidelines before your trip to avoid extra charges or being forced to check your bag.
📝 Sample Carry-On Packing List
Documents and tickets – ID, boarding pass, passport
Phone and charger – essential during the trip and at the airport
Toys and books for kids – lightweight and handy to keep them entertained
Diapers, wipes, and snacks for young children – useful for long flights and waiting times
Liquids in containers up to 100 ml – all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml, with a total volume not exceeding 1 liter. They must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag
🚫 What Not to Bring in Your Carry-On
You’re not allowed to bring dangerous items on board that could pose a security threat. Prohibited items include:
Scissors, knives, blades, and other sharp objects
Liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (e.g., large bottles of drinks or cosmetics)
Some toy weapons or objects that resemble dangerous items (e.g., plastic toy guns)
Flammable items, explosives, or chemicals
At the Airport – Step by Step
The airport can be a stressful place, especially during your first flight. That’s why it’s helpful to know each stage of the process and prepare in advance to avoid unnecessary anxiety—particularly when traveling with children.
🚗 Arriving at the Airport
It’s recommended to arrive at the airport 2–3 hours before your scheduled departure. This gives you plenty of time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and finding your gate. Keep in mind that airports can be large, and walking between different points often takes time.
🧳 Baggage Check-In
If you have checked luggage, head to the check-in counter to drop your suitcase off for loading into the aircraft hold. Many airlines also offer online check-in, allowing you to print your boarding pass in advance or save it on your phone—saving time at the airport.
🔍 Security Check – How to Prepare
Security screening is a mandatory step where both passengers and their bags are checked. To pass through quickly and smoothly, follow these tips:
Remove your belt, jacket, and shoes (if required), and take out electronics like your phone, tablet, or laptop to place them separately in a tray.
Pack liquids in a transparent bag and keep it easily accessible.
If traveling with children, explain the process to them in advance—it will help reduce their stress and make the experience easier for everyone.
⏳ Waiting at the Gate
After passing security, go to the gate from which your boarding will take place. Waiting can feel long, especially for younger passengers, so have activities ready—coloring books, games, a tablet with cartoons, or snacks. If possible, take a short walk around the airport to pass the time and stretch your legs.
On Board the Plane
Boarding the plane marks the true beginning of your journey. To ensure a smooth and comfortable flight, it’s good to know a few basic rules and helpful tips—especially when flying with children.
✈️ What to Do Right After Boarding
Once you reach your seat, fasten your seatbelt right away—this is essential for your safety during takeoff, landing, and any turbulence. Also, make sure your carry-on bag is properly stowed either in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you so it doesn’t get in the way during the flight.
🎲 Keeping Kids Occupied During the Flight
For young passengers, flying can feel long and boring. Bring along toys, books, or games that are easy to carry on board. A tablet with cartoons or favorite songs can also work well—just don’t forget the headphones! Snacks are also a great way to keep kids happy and energized throughout the flight.
👂 Preparing for Takeoff and Landing
Changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort in the ears, especially for children. Sucking on a lollipop, chewing gum, or sipping a drink through a straw can help equalize the pressure and prevent ear blockage. It’s a simple trick that can make the flight much more pleasant.
Additional Tips for Parents
Flying with children can be a challenge, but with the right preparation and attitude, you can make the journey smooth and enjoyable—for everyone.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures at airports and on planes can vary greatly—it might be chilly in the terminal and too warm or cold on board. Dress yourself and your children in layers so you can easily adjust to changing conditions by adding or removing clothing as needed.
🧠 Mentally Preparing Your Child
Talking to your child before the trip is key to reducing their stress and anxiety. Explain what will happen at the airport and on the plane, walk them through the steps of the journey, and reassure them that everything will be fine. Use simple, positive language to spark curiosity and excitement instead of fear.
🎁 Small Rewards for Good Behavior
Traveling with kids isn’t always easy, so it helps to motivate them with little surprises—this could be a favorite snack, a small toy, or stickers. These small treats can keep spirits high and encourage positive behavior throughout the trip.
😊 Parents' Calm and Positive Attitude
Children are very sensitive to adult emotions. Try to stay calm and optimistic, even during stressful moments. Your composure will reassure your kids, making the entire travel experience much more pleasant.
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