Everything to Check Off Before You Fly
Flying out soon? Even if you're a frequent flyer, you don't want to be left scrambling hours before takeoff. The best way to prepare is to overprepare—and we've got just the list you need to make sure you're ready to go. From updating your travel documents to packing light snacks in your carry-on, here are 20 things you should do before boarding a plane.
1. Check-In Online
Before even setting foot into the airport, you'll want to make sure you've already checked into your flight online. While you can do this step in person, you'll be limited in seating choices, and you won't be able to order special meals if you have dietary restrictions.
2. Review Your Itinerary
It's always a good idea to review your itinerary plan before you board, especially if you have a connecting flight at an airport and city you're not familiar with. Do some research beforehand to make sure everything goes smoothly and efficiently. The last thing you want is to be lost, flustered, and rushing around.
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3. Eat
We all know airline meals are a far cry from the food you can get at an actual restaurant, so eat before you head to the skies. Just make sure you choose something light yet filling, like warm chicken noodle soup, over greasy, heavy fried foods.
4. Make Sure Your Passport & Visa Are Valid
Double- and triple-check you have your passport on hand before you leave the house, and that the document is valid, well before you head to the airport. If the country you're visiting requires a visa, you'll want to make sure you have that sorted out as well.
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5. Download Important Apps
From translator apps to eSIM providers, ensure you have these downloaded and ready to go on your phone when you land at your destination. Wi-Fi can be spotty at the airport, and if you don't have a network connection, you'll have a much tougher time trying to figure out everything. Be prepared before you leave your city.
6. Have Games or Activities Ready for Your Flight
Speaking of downloading apps, you'll also likely want to make sure you have games, media, and other activities ready before you board. This might mean downloading your favorite playlist, movie, TV show, podcast, or book, so you can kick back and relax once you're settled in your seat.
7. Refill Your Water Bottle
The cabin air can zap moisture from your skin and dry you out, and while you can buzz the flight attendants every time you need a hydration boost, it's probably better to bring your own water bottle. Empty it before the security check, then remember to refill it after you get through.
8. Pack Snacks
Whether you're taking a short- or long-haul flight, you'll probably want to pack some snacks with you in case you get hungry on board. Protein and granola bars are smart picks, as are nuts, pretzels, and trail mix. But as rules may vary from country to country, make sure to read up on any restrictions before you load your treats.
9. Dress Comfortably
Don't constrict yourself by wearing skinny jeans and a t-shirt to your flight—you'll quickly realize your mistake once you board. The cabin can get uncomfortably warm or cool, so it's best to bring a light layer with you just in case, and pair a loose top with long, stretchy pants. Footwear matters, too: go with sneakers or slip-ons.
10. Bring—or Buy—a Travel Pillow
Remember to bring a travel pillow with you before you leave the house. If you forget, you might be against buying one at the airport (given how overpriced they can be), but going without one will make for an uncomfortable trip—especially if you're sitting in the middle seat.
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11. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
As we've mentioned, the cabin air may dry out your skin, so make sure to moisturize your face and body well before you board the plane. Bring your lotion with you—travel size, of course—and keep it in your carry-on when you need to touch up mid-flight.
12. Use the Restroom
We all know how tiny and cramped airplane bathrooms are, so you'll want to do your business in a normal-sized restroom before you fly. We recommend going right before your boarding time to reduce the chances of nature calling when you're 30,000 feet in the air.
13. Weigh Your Luggage
Different airlines have different rules, policies, and luggage restrictions, so make sure to read up on them before you even pack. Afterwards, check to see that your bag meets the dimensions and doesn't exceed the weight limit. Otherwise, you might have to pay a hefty fee.
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14. Get Travel Insurance
Have insurance planned and ready as soon as you book your trip. Travel insurance can protect you from flight delays, cancellations, lost baggage, and other unforeseen issues. It may also cover emergency medical costs, so you're not hit with a pricey bill when you need care in a foreign country.
15. Put on Compression Socks
If you're prone to swelling in the legs when you fly, make sure to swap your regular socks for compression ones before you fly out. These socks help to gently squeeze your calves to promote circulation, ensuring blood flows back to your heart more efficiently.
16. Sanitize
You probably won't want to know how dirty a plane cabin still is even after it's been cleaned of garbage and debris. To protect yourself from hidden germs and bacteria, bring sanitizing wipes and gel with you to wipe down tray tables, arm rests, entertainment screens, and other frequently touched spots.
17. Charge Your Devices
The last thing you want is for your devices to run out of battery when you need them the most—entertaining you in the skies. Make sure to top them up well before you board, and bring compatible cables along so you can recharge them mid-flight if needed.
18. Choose the Right Carry-On Bag
Instead of having to cram all your essentials in a tiny pouch or purse, choose the right-sized bag that fits all the things you'll need on board. A backpack is usually the best choice, as it's big enough to carry your necessities, but still small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
19. Check the Weather at Your Destination
Before you board, peek at the weather situation at your destination. This will give you a heads up on whether your flight might experience any delays or interruptions, or if you might need to arrange for a different mode of transportation.
20. Relax
Phew—you've made it through the list. The last thing you need to do before takeoff? Lounge near your gate and relax. You might even want to catch some shut-eye for a bit, though we recommend sleeping on the plane. If you want, you can go through the checklist once more, but you've probably ticked everything off. So take a deep breath, kick back, and look forward to your trip!
