I'm 21 years old and, as crazy as it sounds, had never been on an airplane until a couple of weeks ago. It's not that I was afraid of flying--my family just doesn't travel that often. Nevertheless, I'd heard enough stories to be a little leery about the whole process. I thought that airports are always overcrowded, you have to run across the terminal in order to catch your plane, and that flights are constantly being rescheduled and rerouted. I'd also watched a little too much Lost recently.

Thankfully, all of my flights went smoothly and the view from above the clouds was spectacular. I'm not an expert at flying by any stretch, but I hope I can offer some advice to other first-time flyers.

Here are 10 tips for your first time flying on an airplane:

1. Fly in the morning.

The early bird catches the worm. Whether or not you like waking up early, it's worth a little less sleep in order to beat the crowds. As the day progresses, there are just more and more people waiting around because of layovers.

2. Review the baggage guidelines for your airline.

Make sure to find out how many FREE checked bags, carry-on bags, and personal items the airline you're flying with allows you to bring. No sense in paying to check more bags or worrying about finding your luggage at baggage claim if you don't have to--especially if you'll only be travelling for a few days.

3. Stay calm while going through security.

Security really isn't that bad. All you have to do is remove your shoes, cell phone, and any food you have with you; send your bags through the metal detector; and walk through the full-body scanner. Just don't put a little plastic baggy with coins inside of a change purse with other coins. It looks really suspicious in retrospect. Oops.

4. Bring a portable charger.

There are outlets scattered around the airport but they go fast. It's easier to have a portable phone charger handy so your battery doesn't get too low. You always want to be able to get in contact with family, go on the internet, and take pictures.

5. Get a window seat.

Windows seats have the best view.

6. Chew gum.

Chewing gum while on an airplane legitimately helps to equalize the pressure in your ears. For the best results, chew it continuously throughout the entire flight.

7. Don't be concerned if you keep getting hiccups.

Eating fast, drinking carbonated beverages, and chewing gum is the perfect recipe for at least five cases of hiccups. Where can you find all of those ingredients? Ah yes! On an airplane.

8. Accept complementary snacks.

Many airlines offer free snacks like peanuts, cookies, and crackers. Always take them; even if you aren't going to eat them during the flight, they might come in handy during a layover.

9. Bring cards or activity books.

If you have a long layover or even a long flight, it's a good idea to bring something to keep you occupied. You can play a card game if you're travelling with others. If you're flying solo, grab an activity book so you can do cross word puzzles, word searches, or Sudoku.

10. Take pictures.

The view from above the clouds--especially at sunset is one of the coolest experiences in the world. Capture it on camera.

Plan ahead and know what to expect, but relax and enjoy the ride.