Navigating an airport can be intimidating, whether you’re travelling alone or with a group. But with the right preparation and support from staff along the way, you’ll breeze through!
Firstly, preparation:
Arrange your transport to the airport ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress and ensure you arrive with plenty of time before your flight. Whether it’s a taxi, bus, train, or a lift from a family member, aim to get there around three hours before departure. This gives you wiggle room if your transport is late and plenty of time to get through security.
If you’re checking in a bag, pack all your liquids in it to avoid dealing with restrictions at security.
Keep the essentials on hand when you pack!
If you need to bring liquids in your hand luggage, make sure each item is under 100ml and stored in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Keep this at the top of your bag so it’s easy to access at security. Do the same with your electronics (phones, laptops, chargers, hairdryers, etc), since you’ll need to remove them during screening.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and avoid metal embellishments where possible. I recommend wearing leggings or joggers and a hoodie! Be prepared to remove shoes, belts, jackets, hats, scarves, and even purses at security.
The day before your flight, check in online and either print your boarding pass or have a copy sent to your phone and screenshot it just in case. It’ll save you time at the airport.
At the airport:
You won’t often find an airport as quiet as this!
Keep your passport in a secure, easily accessible spot, like a zipped pocket in your hand luggage, as you’ll need to show it multiple times.
Start by heading to the check-in desk if you’re checking a bag. Here, your passport will be scanned, your luggage weighed and handed over. If you didn’t check in online, this is where you’ll receive your boarding pass.
After check-in, go straight to security. Empty your water bottle if you’ve brought one, and have your passport and boarding pass ready.
At security, empty your pockets into a tray, place electronics and liquids into separate trays, and remove items like your purse, belt, jacket, scarf, and hat. Expect to use multiple trays.
Once everything is in the trays, wait to be signalled through the scanner. You may also be asked to undergo a quick pat-down or a scan with a metal detector.
Before leaving the security area, double-check you’ve collected all your items – now the trickiest part is completed!
When your gate appears on the departure board, take note of its location and boarding time. Feel free to explore, but stay nearby once boarding approaches.
At your destination, follow signs to passport control, where there may be a short queue. Then collect your luggage, pass through customs, and you’re all set to start 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.
