It can be intimidating to go through an airport, whether you’re travelling with a group or on your own; however, it’s important to remember that there are many people around to help, so you’ll be fine! From experience, it is simple if you prepare correctly and follow these instructions.

Firstly, preparation:

Arrange your transport to the airport to give you plenty of time before your flight. This could be a taxi, a bus, a train or getting a lift from a family member. But make sure it is pre-arranged to arrive about 3 hours before your flight time, this gives you wiggle room if transport is late and enough time to get through security.

If you’re checking a bag, pack all liquids in it so you don’t need to worry about the limitations at security.

Keep the essentials on hand when you pack!

If you do need liquids in your hand luggage, make sure they’re under 100ml and in a plastic Ziploc bag at the top of your bag so that it is easy to grab them out at security. Also, pack your electronics the same way; these include your phone/laptop/charger/devices/hairdryer. You will have to get these out at security, so make sure they are easy to reach.

Make sure to wear comfortable, loose clothing, and avoid metal embellishments (I would suggest leggings or joggers and a hoodie). And be prepared to have to take your shoes/purse/hat/scarf/belt/jacket off.

The day before your flight, check in online. Then, print your boarding pass or have it sent to your phone and screenshot it. This will save you time on the day.

At the airport:

You won’t often find an airport as quiet as this!

Have your passport in a safe, designated spot on your person, such as a zip compartment on your hand luggage, as you will need to get it out multiple times, but don’t want to lose it.

Firstly, head to the check-in desk to have your passport scanned and your bag weighed and handed over (if your luggage is going in the hold). If you haven’t previously checked in online, they will also hand you your boarding pass at this stage.

Once you’ve checked your bag, head straight to security. Empty your water bottle if you have one, and have your passport/ boarding pass ready.

Empty everything from your pockets into the trays provided, electricals and liquids into other trays, and your purse/hat/scarf/belt/jacket also go into other trays. You may end up with 3 or 4 trays by the time you’ve put everything in, as they request!

Stand in line and wait to be signalled through. You may also have an over-clothes metal detector search and pat down at this point.

Check that you have everything back together before you leave the security area. Once you are through security, this is the most fiddly bit completed!

Next, once your gate is listed on the departures boards, locate your gate and familiarise yourself with the time and location in case you want to wander. Wait nearby until it’s time to board.

Once you have reached your destination airport, follow the signs to passport control. You may have to queue here for a bit. Collect your baggage, go through customs and enjoy your trip!

Remember, there is nothing to worry about. Be organised, keep calm and follow the steps above.

For more tips, make sure to check out our full airport guide and our guide to airport liquid requirements.