Exploring Airports: Activities And Tips For Travelers

Airports can be intimidating places, especially for first-time flyers. However, the process of navigating an airport is relatively simple and straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you know what to do when you arrive at the airport:

1. Check-in for your flight: You can usually check-in online or via an app, which allows you to download a digital boarding pass. If you have luggage to check-in, you may need to go to the airline's check-in counter or a self-service kiosk to print your boarding pass and check-in your luggage.

2. Go through security: You will need to go through a security checkpoint where you and your bags will be scanned. Make sure to follow the instructions and have your boarding pass and ID ready. Remove any prohibited items from your carry-on luggage, such as liquids, sharp objects, and electronic devices.

3. Find your gate: Once you have cleared security, follow the signs to your departure gate. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early and locate your gate first, so you know where it is and how long it takes to get there.

4. Board the plane: Present your boarding pass and ID at the gate, and proceed to the aircraft. Boarding usually starts 30-40 minutes before departure, and you will be assigned a boarding group. Find your seat, stow your luggage, and prepare for take-off.

5. Pick up your luggage: Once you arrive at your destination, follow the signs to the baggage claim area to collect any checked bags. Each flight is assigned a luggage carousel, so check the monitors to find the correct one.

6. Exit the airport: Finding your way out of the airport can be tricky, as each airport has different rules about ride-sharing and ground transportation. Follow the signs, ask for directions if needed, and enjoy the rest of your trip!

Check-in online, at a kiosk, or at a counter

Checking in online, at a kiosk, or at a counter is the first step to boarding your flight. Checking in allows you to reserve your seat on the plane and provides you with a boarding pass, which you will need to board the aircraft. Checking in online is often the most convenient option, as it can be done from anywhere in the world and allows you to skip the line at the check-in desk at the airport. To check in online, simply log on to the airline's website or app and input your name and booking confirmation number. During the online check-in process, you can select your seat, add meals, request upgrades, and more. After checking in, you will receive your boarding pass, which can be printed, emailed to you, or saved to your mobile wallet. Checking in online also allows you to check in earlier than if you were to wait until you arrive at the airport, increasing the number of seats available to choose from and reducing your chances of being bumped from an oversold flight. Most airlines allow online check-in to begin 24 hours before the flight's scheduled departure time, but some international airlines open check-in 48 hours in advance, so it is always a good idea to check with your airline.

If you are unable to check in online, you can check in at a kiosk or counter at the airport. At most international airports, you will also have the option to use a self-service check-in machine. To use a self-service check-in machine, you will need to provide the machine with details from the ID card you used when booking your ticket, as well as your booking confirmation code. With some machines, you can choose your seat, or the system will automatically assign you one. After checking in, you will receive a printed boarding pass, which you will need to keep with you to board the plane.

Checking in at the counter is the most traditional method and typically involves the longest wait times. At the check-in counter, you will need to present your passport or national ID, booking confirmation code, and any checked baggage. Your checked baggage will be weighed and sent to be loaded onto the plane. After presenting your documents and checking your baggage, you will receive a boarding pass, which you will need to proceed to the boarding gate and board the aircraft.

Drop off hold luggage

Dropping off hold luggage at the airport is a straightforward process, but it's important to allow yourself plenty of time. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. This is especially important if you are checking a bag, as you will need to spend time at the check-in desk or self-service drop-off point.

Firstly, make your way to the correct terminal for your flight. At larger airports, each airline operates out of a specific terminal, so check this in advance to save time when you arrive. Once you are at the correct terminal, look for the check-in desks for your airline. If self-service baggage drop-off points are available, you will usually find them near the check-in desks. Check the opening times for baggage drop-off, as these can vary depending on your flight. For European flights, the drop-off will typically close 40 minutes before departure, while for intercontinental flights, it will close 60 minutes before departure.

When you reach the check-in desk or self-service point, you will need to present your travel documentation and check-in any hold luggage. You may also be able to select your seat at this point if you have not already done so. You will be issued with a boarding pass, either as a paper ticket or a mobile pass on your phone.

Once you have checked in your hold luggage and received your boarding pass, you can make your way to the security checkpoint.

Pass security

Passing through security can be a stressful experience, but there are many ways to make the process smoother. Here are some tips to help you pass through airport security with ease:

Prepare in Advance

Before you leave for the airport, it is important to be prepared. Wear practical shoes that are easy to remove, such as slip-on shoes, and avoid wearing metallic clothing or accessories, as these will have to be removed before passing through a metal detector. If you are carrying any liquids or gels, ensure they are packaged appropriately and comply with the relevant restrictions. It is also a good idea to pack your belongings in an organised way, making it easier for security to check your bags if needed.

Have Your Documents Ready

Have your boarding pass and photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport) ready before reaching the security line. Keep your boarding pass easily accessible, as it will be screened again, and put your ID away in your bag to keep it secure.

Remove Necessary Items

Once you reach the security belt, remove the necessary items from your carry-on luggage. This includes any plastic bags containing liquids, as well as laptops and other electronic devices. Place these items directly onto the belt or into the provided bins.

Make Removing Your Shoes Easy

The TSA requires passengers to remove their shoes when passing through the metal detector. To make this process easier, consider wearing shoes that you can easily slip off without bending down. You can also untie your shoelaces in advance and tuck them into your shoes.

Remove Necessary Clothing and Accessories

Remove any metal objects, as well as jackets and hats, depending on the airport's requirements. If you are under 13, over 75, or have completed a TSA Pre Check, you may be exempt from removing certain items.

Stay Calm and Follow Instructions

Remember to stay calm and follow the instructions provided by the security staff. If you are selected for additional screening, comply immediately and politely. Inform security of any piercings, implants, or other metal items on your body that cannot be removed.

Keep Your Belongings Organised

After passing through security, collect your belongings and put them away as quickly as possible. Make sure you have everything and move away from the security area to make room for other passengers.

Find your gate

Finding your gate at the airport is simple. Once you've checked in and gone through security, follow the signs to your gate. Your gate number will be on your boarding pass, but you can also find the most up-to-date gate information on the departure boards throughout the airport.

If you're at a large airport, you may need to take a train or tram to another terminal, but this should be clearly signposted. If you're unsure, you can always ask an information kiosk or a fellow traveller for help.

Once you've found your gate, you can relax and wait for your flight to be called. You can also use this time to grab some food, do some shopping, or go to the bathroom. Make sure you stay close to the gate so you can hear any updates about your flight, such as delays or gate changes.

Board the plane

Once you've gone through security and found your gate, it's time to board the plane. Here's what you need to do:

Firstly, wait for the announcement to board. This usually happens about half an hour before takeoff, but it can vary depending on the airline and the size of the aircraft. Keep an ear out and, if necessary, keep an eye on the gate, as the gate attendant will announce the boarding time.

Boarding is typically done in sections, either by group/zone or by rows/seats. Check your boarding pass to see if you have a designated group, and if not, wait for your row or section of rows to be called. First class, business class, and passengers with disabilities or infants will usually board first, followed by premium class passengers and frequent flyer status holders. Economy class passengers board last.

When your group is called, line up and get your boarding pass scanned by the gate attendant. If you're flying internationally, you'll need to show your passport at this point. Keep your boarding pass out, as you may need to show it to a flight attendant on the plane.

Next, walk down the hallway to the plane. This could be short, or it could be long and curved, depending on the airport and flight. Once you reach the aircraft, there may be a buildup of passengers, so you might need to wait in line again. Check your seat number and keep a lookout for your row. If you need help finding your seat, you can ask other passengers or a flight attendant.

Once you've located your seat, place your smaller bag under your chair and look for space in the overhead bins for your larger carry-on. You can ask a flight attendant for help if necessary. Finally, sit down, fasten your seatbelt, and relax!

Frequently asked questions