As easy as flying overseas may sound — book a flight , go to the airport and take off , there are still many process to go through , especially at the airport . Today , we are going to walk you through all the steps in the airport , from checking in to departure . Get ready with us and make sure you’re all set !
1. Arriving at the airport
Rule of thumb — arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure . You never know what kind of situation you’ll bump into . Traffic jams , baggage problems , endless queues ( mainly in peak seasons ) … who knows ? In any case , reach ahead of time , especially if you’re a first timer.
2. Checking in
Once you arrived , check the screen for your airline’s check-in desk . Go to the counter of your airline and wait in line . When it’s your turn , show the staff your passport and flight confirmation ( printed or electronic ) in order to collect your boarding pass . Hand your checked bags to the personnel . If they meet the baggage regulations and pass screening , they’ll print tags with your name and checked destination , stick them to your bags and load them onto the plane . And congrats , you’re done with this step . Let’s move on to the security check .
( NOTE : Online and automated check-ins are also possible options. )
3. Security check
As you walk to your gate , you and your carry-ons must go through personal security screening . In this process you’ll be instructed to :
- present your passport and boarding pass
- throw away prohibited items
- remove outer clothing ( e.g. hoodies, coats ) including your shoes and place them into a bin to go through inspection
- place all carry-on bags in bins for scanning
- go through electronic body screening
After you and your belongings successfully pass the screening , you may collect your stuff and head to the departure zone .
4. Waiting
Now , you’re waiting for boarding in the departure zone (a.k.a. the secure area ) — my favorite step . Here is a mega-mall filled with duty-free shops , food courts and many other forms of entertainment . If you’re a VIP of an airline , you may as well spent your time in the VIP lounge , enjoying services such as showers , free cafes or even buffets .
( NOTE: If you leave this area , you’ll have to go through the security check again . )
5. Boarding
Find the gate of your flight . It is shown on your boarding pass . Remember to be there no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time . The airline staff will announce the boarding seat order and let passengers board as they check their boarding pass one last time . Yay ! Now you’ve made your way to the plane . Give yourself a round of applause !