I recently went on a trip to Ireland and had to fly international for the first time. I found the travel to be wonderful, but I also realized that there were a lot of things that I didn't know, and a lot of things that the other travelers around me didn't seem to know. So, if you have an upcoming flight, I hope this list helps you!
1. Pack Smart.
This means several things! The first is that you need to think about where you are going and what you will need there. While I was in Ireland, I realized that I had brought no large coats! This was a problem for someone who is always cold in a country where it is always cold. This also means, however, that you need to think about what you are and aren't allowed to bring. Some things are pretty reasonable (weapons, heavy rocks, etc.) others are more obscure. So, it's good to check the TSA's website for their guidelines on what you should and shouldn't pack.
2. Arrive early.
Always get to the airport early! There are countless reasons why you might be late, from checking bags to getting through the infamous security lines. I'd suggest getting there up to two hours early, all the time. Missing a flight is, arguably, the absolute worst thing that one can do, so it's best to just avoid it.
3. Be Patient.
There's going to be a lot of waiting in line at the airport. Waiting to check in, waiting to get through security, and waiting at your gate. Not to mention that you'll be on a plane with a bunch of strangers for or more hours and that could potentially not be a good thing. But, through all of this, know that you're still going to get to your destination. So, don't get angry, just relax and think about how much longer you'd spend if you traveled by land or sea.
4. Don't Give Security a Hard Time.
Here's the deal: You have to go through security. I understand that you might conscientiously object to the idea of so much security and I'm sorry that we live in a society that makes it necessary, but that's the reality. You have to go through security. I know, it's a drag and can be infuriating or even humiliating, but it's for our own good, whether we like it or not. When I was coming back from Ireland, I brought back a rock which tripped the X-Ray when my bag went through. The TSA agent asked me to show them the rock, but to do that I had to pretty much empty my bag which consisted of all of my underwear. I had all of that laying on the table for everyone to see and it was pretty embarrassing. I didn't, however, give the agent any problems because I knew two things. 1. She was just doing her job and didn't mean to make me embarrassed and 2. I was going to have to show her the rock no matter what - whether it was there or after I had been stripped search as a potential threat - I decided showing her it there was better. Giving security any grief will not cause a massive overhaul of the system - instead it will only slow down everyone behind you and probably get you searched thoroughly.
5. Relax.
Basically, you're gonna be okay. Everything's gonna work out and you're gonna get to where you're going just fine. Sure, there are times when it's important to stress and attempt to make the system move a little faster, but besides those rare occasions, it is better to just go with the flow and let things happen. You'll have a much better experience that way.
