Thursday 16 October 2014

First-time flyer tips

So you've booked your flight, you’re all excited to go on your trip whether it’s for a holiday or to visit some good friends, but there’s one problem you haven’t flown in years or worse you've never been on a flight before. You have no clue what to do, how to check in for your flight, get through security or get to your gate… but never fear there are some easy, helpful tips to get you through your flyer experience safe and sound.

~ Prepare for your trip:
If this is your first time flying, its best to be prepared before you even leave for the airport. Restrict what you choose to pack into your suitcase, I mean do you really need that huge tub of hair gel taking up weight and space in your bag? And it’s just common sense that you can’t bring prohibited items with you like firearms and dangerous chemicals.

~ Check or carry your bag:
There are many pros and cons to whether you should check your bags in or to carry your bags into the cabin. Sometimes it is better to carry your bags because your bags will never get lost and lost luggage can be such a drag, plus you always know your stuff is securely with you at all times.
In other cases it’s better to check-in your bags because there are always strict baggage limits that you can take into the cabin with you, so if you’re a heavy packer it’s a lot better to just check your luggage in so you don’t have to fight everyone on-board for overhead bin space.

~ Confirming you flight:
It’s always a good idea to check with your airline a day before your departure, another thing to note is that it’s a good idea to arrive at least two hours before your flight, you never know how long the lines will be when you arrive. If you live in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, Airport Shuttle is the cheapest, most reliable public transport to get to and from Cape Town International Airport, this way you don’t have to be frustrated by expensive airport parking.

~ Getting through airport security:
When you've got your boarding pass, its then time to proceed to airport security, usually there will be easy signs to see to guide you to the correct gate, to avoid delaying everyone waiting behind you, you should be prepared when entering the airport security checkpoint
  • Make sure you have no sharp objects like scissors or nail files on you, they should be checked into your bags.
  • Be ready to remove you shoes, belt, watch or anything that could contain metal.
  • If you have a laptop with you remove it from its case or bag and place it in a separate bin.
  • Keep your airport ID and boarding pass available in case you have to show any officials.

~ The boarding process:
Once you've made it past the security checkpoint you can then proceed to the boarding area, usually boarding happens at least 30 minutes before the departure, so make sure you are on time. As you move along you will pass an airline gate agent and they will take your boarding pass (sometimes they ask for your ID) its then time to get on the plane, find your seat, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for your flight, you have officially made it through!


Always keep in mind that all airports are different, so the layout of the terminals and gates and the general amount of airport services may be different. To get through your first time flight smoothly, just make sure to keep these tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to fly those friendly skies.

You've just arrived in Cape Town and you need comfortable, affordable accommodation in a convenient area, 808 Cartwright is the ideal place, make sure to book now.


Written By: Christine Romans

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