Flying can be intimidating especially when you are flying for the first time or travelling alone because you have no clue what to expect. Some airports are bigger than others, so the first tip is to always a couple of hours before your flight, and it is always wise to pre book your parking, or if you are travelling in areas like Heathrow, you can also get the parking services like Heathrow Park and Fly which will make your journey more in budget. Heathrow Park and Fly Parking services also offer discount. Following are some of the detailed steps on how to make your travelling less intimidating.

The first step is to book the flight. A lot of people buy their tickets online however the only thing you fear while purchasing your ticket at the airport is it being expensive. Before flight, you need to “check in,” which acknowledges you are still making the trip. Depending on the airline you chose, you may be able to choose a seat at check-in. During this process, you will receive a boarding pass, and a document that proves that you’ve bought a ticket. If you haven’t purchased tickets, you will need to start at ticketing counter at the airport. This is usually labeled as “Ticketing,’’ where you can purchase your ticket, check in, and receive your boarding pass at the ticket counter. Your checked luggage is weighted and it has to be less than 50lbs and tagged to make sure it goes with you on your flight.

After you are done checking in at the ticket counter, you will head to the security checkpoint, where your boarding pass and government issued I.D. will be checked. Then you’ll be asked to place your carry-on bag and other belongings like stuff in your pockets, belt and shoes etc, on bins that roll through an x-ray machine. Then you’ll walk through a scanner, and then you’ll get your belongings and head to find your gate. The gate is the area where you wait until it’s time to board. This area usually has restaurants and gift shops around it. You’ll be allocated a specific gate according to your flight number. When it’s time, your boarding pass will be checked by a gate agent and you’ll walk through a small tunnel and into the plane.

Now the fun part, that is the flying itself. For some people it is intimidating but if you know what to expect you will probably be able to overcome your fear. Passengers board the plane, find their seats and store any carry-on baggage in the storage area above the seats. Airhost/Airhostesses give safety instructions and how long will it take to reach your destination. The Captain “drives” the aircraft on ground to get in position for takeoff. Before the takeoff, you should fasten your seat belts and remain seated. You are free to move when a plane reaches a certain altitude.

After you land you’ll head to the baggage claim area. Shortly after your landing, luggage is placed on a carousel for passengers to pick up. From here you can exit the airport premises and enjoy your vacation.