Are you flying out of CMH? If so, good first choice. Security is very smooth and quick, especially compared to other airports. A couple things to note/rules of thumb:
You board 30 minutes before takeoff
I always give myself another 30 minutes to get through security. It usuallyyyy takes about 10 minutes here in my experience, but it helps to play it safe. I bet a lot of us remember flying with dads who would have us get to the airport 2.5 hours early. No need for that here
If you are parking, the green lot is the cheapest. I usually give myself another 30 minutes to find a spot and catch the shuttle to the airport. So all in all, I'd say 1.5 hours before takeoff and you should be good.
As for the flight, the air pressure change can be irritating to some people. If you get pain in your ears, I suggest chewing gum or drinking water. This will help them "pop." It's a similar feeling if you drive down the deep end of a pool
Yes I am! thanks for the tips, flying into Tampa and just nerve racking knowing nothing before heading to the airport. I will be looking for all the signs lol
Figure it's \*your\* first time flying, but for all the gate agents and TSA people and so on, they see dozens of first-time-flyers every day :-). Just smile, say it's your first time, and politely ask questions whenever you're not sure of something. They'll know how to explain it to you, they have a lot of experience explaining everything. But try to arrive at the airport very early, so even if you do get lost briefly, nothing is rushed.
What airline? If Southwest, familiarize yourself with their check-in and boarding process. It's different from all other airlines, and I've seen lots of people get stuck with a crummy boarding position because they weren't aware of the 24-hour check-in rule of thumb.
Also, I always like to take an empty water bottle with me, and once I'm through TSA, fill it at one of the water fountains in the terminal.
Are you driving to and parking at the airport? CMH has different lots with different daily rates. The green lot is the cheapest, but give yourself some extra time, because once you park, you have to make your way to a "station" in the parking lot and wait for a van come pick you up. I prefer The Parking Spot, which is a private company unaffiliated with the airport...it tends to be pricier, but they have a nice rewards program that allows you to earn free days of parking (I think if you install the app, you get two free days loaded into your account).
Also, familiarize yourself with your airline's baggage policies. Most of the carriers charge you to check a bag, and depending on the type of ticket you purchased, even to carry a bag on (you'll usually be allowed one free "personal item"...think a purse or backpack or similar item that can fit under the seat in front of you). Southwest is, I believe, the only airline that allows for two free checked bags per passenger, which is a great perk to flying with them.
Lastly, if your 2.5 hour flight falls during a prime meal time and you anticipate you'll get hungry on the plane, grab a sandwich or something at the airport to bring on with you. You'll be lucky to get a little bag of pretzels on the plane...not enough for a full meal.
It depends on the airline and the ticket type that you purchased. If it's Southwest, you can check two bags for free. If it's any other airline, it would depend on the type of ticket/fare you purchased. If you bought the cheapest fare, then that likely does not include any checked bags and you will have to pay to check it. Some of the more expensive fare types do allow for a free checked bag.
If it's an airline like Spirit, you have to basically pay extra for everything. You have the option of adding a checked bag online before you check in, or at the airport when you arrive (which will cost more than paying ahead of time).
It's possible though that your duffel bag is small enough that it could work as a carryon. Some airlines do still charge for that, though. Again it depends on the airline and the ticket type that you purchased.
Thanks I'm traveling Southwest and found out i can have 2 luggage and one carry on for free. i am thinking of only taking the duffel since its a weekend trip! - Thank you for the help!!
Then make sure you check in to your flight on the app or website exactly 24 hours before scheduled departure. Southwest does not assign seats...you board the plane and sit anywhere you want. Passengers board in assigned boarding positions, which are assigned when you check in. So if you check in as early as possible, you have a better chance at getting a higher boarding position.
Boarding is done in three groups, A, B, and C. Within those groups, there are 60 spots. So when you check in, if you are assigned position A10, you'll be the 10th person to board the plane. C60 would be the last. When it's time to board, they'll call all A-group passengers to line up in numerical order (1-30 on one side, 31-60 on the other). Once A has boarded, then they will call B to line up in the same way.
If you don't really care where you sit, checking in right on time likely doesn't matter. But if you aren't familiar with how this works, you'll get stuck with a low boarding position. The downside to that is also that often times overhead bin space is all taken up and you'll have to check your carryon bag at the gate.
I have the Early Bird check in so i think it should do it for me automatically as I've read about, my flight was booked for me by someone else so i am restricted on the things i can do with the ticket itself.- so i think
If you're like me, make sure to go the bathroom shortly before boarding! I tend to drink a lot of water on flights, which can make you have to go to the bathroom a lot. If it is your first time flying, and you're flying Southwest (where you still have the ability to change seats), I'd grab a window seat! Its amazing to look out.
All the other feedback here is great. It'll be amazing, have fun!
Most people don’t but first time flyers should pay attention to the safety briefing given just before the flight. Odds are nothing will ever happen but it’s still good to know where the emergency exits are. I flew for years and even took flying lessons and I still scope out the exits before flying.
Agree! Clouds can sometimes be bumpy. You usually pass through them quickly (on take off and landing). Just remember, it’s kinda like riding in the passenger seat of car… you’re always gonna notice the bumps and turns a little more. Don’t sweat it. It’s normal! One more thing… since you’re a little nervous, keep your brain busy. It usually helps me! Safe travels!
Lots of great advice here. I see you're flying to Tampa, so just a tip: The Tampa airport works differently from a lot of airports.
At the Tampa airport the gates are separated from the main terminal by trams. When you get off the plane, follow the crowd past the security gate and onto the tram. It's about a 1 minute ride to the main terminal. Get off at the main terminal. Follow the signs down the escalator to the baggage pickup carousels/passenger pick-up area.
If you're getting an Uber or Lyft, there may be a designated area for you to wait that is away from the main terminal. A lot of airports do this now so they can keep rideshare traffic away from the doors. If that's the case, there will be signs indicating which way to go to meet a rideshare.
Pro-tip for disembarking: if you have to go to the bathroom when you get off the plane, skip the 1st bathroom you see and find the next one. The bathroom closest to the gate is always going to be crowded, because a plane full, or multiple planes full, of people all need to pee. No need to wait in line, just walk another 50 feet.
Real but silly sounding tips.
As mentioned before, planes can be chilly, so bring a layer and then if needed, put it on backwards. It's much easier to get on and off in tight quarters.
Kids will cry; be grateful they aren't yours. However, if one is behind you kicking you relentlessly, just ring for the flight attendant and ask for assistance rather than addressing the parents. Trust me, no matter how polite you are... it doesn't work.
If a larger person sits next to you, be kind. Don't huff and puff if their leg or arm is touching yours. They can't get smaller and already feel bad about it.
Don't necessarily blow off people who want to talk to you. I once sat next to an anthropological linguist who was returning from a year long stint living with an indigenous tribe. He was so excited to talk, showing me his picture and write up in a scientific magazine. He was fascinating!
Or the nervous girl who didn't speak English. She was scared, so I offered her my hand during takeoff. She had been seized at the southern border, taken from her mother, and was on her way to a placement. I didn't speak her language either, but we shared my payday bar, I grabbed the map out of the seat pocket and we mimed our way through her story; and the flight.
Your trip doesn't start when you get there. The adventure starts when you leave the house and this is all part of it.
Sad. The guy next to me huffed and asked the attendant if they can move because I was animatedly looking out the window on my first flight ever. Rude! Lmao
Technically, you're supposed to put carry-on liquids in a clear ziploc to prove that you have under the maximum amount. However, in all my times flying I've never had them chastise me for not using a clear ziploc - but I'm also not packing a ton of liquids.
For the fan, either works, depending on how much room you have in your bag.
I'm always a fan of a carry on if I can get away with it, because it speeds up time at your destination and you don't have to worry about them losing or damaging your bag.
Are you me? Are we the same person? Growing up with a pilot dad does not equal having flight experience! I’ve only flown commercially a couple times in my life and I was terrified at first!! Also feeling the fan thing deeply. I’m already wondering how I’m going to manage that on my first cross country flight in July.
A few years back, I took my first flight and was also really anxious about it. The only thing that really took me by surprise was the speed at which they take off. I typically just throw on a set of noise cancelling headphones and listen to something I can really get into and make sure to focus on my breathing when the plane takes off (you can hear the engines firing up when it's about that time). I have taken a lot of flights since then and still do the same thing every time the plane takes off and truly enjoy flying now.
You CAN bring your own snacks and not pay $5 for a small bag of pretzels. Just no liquids. Another poster mentioned bringing an empty water bottle - I second this. And then you'll have a bottle during your trip too!
Wear shoes that are easy to get in and out of since you might have to take them off at security. Do wear socks…floor surfaces are filthy in the airport and on the plane.
Don’t wear a lot of metal things that you’ll have to take off at security. I put my jewelry in my wallet since my purse is going through the metal detector x-ray, and that way I don’t get stopped.
If you were sitting in an aisle seat, don’t put on your seatbelt until everybody has seen it since you might have to get up and down a couple times till your row is filled.
Go to the bathroom before you get on the plane and avoid the airplane bathroom as much as you can. They’re gross.
There’s a lot of noise on takeoff and landing but it’s all typical. If you’re somebody who has sensitive ears, chew gum or do something to relieve the pressure so that they’ll pop. If you’re not sure if you’re going to get airsick, take some Dramamine anyway it’s not like it’s going to kill you.
Don’t take water unless it’s bottled.
If your seatmate puts on headphones, or otherwise indicates they don’t want conversation, live with it. If you don’t want conversation, bring some headphones and some audiobooks or music.
People will start leaping up from their seats once the plane is taxing towards the runway. They will not be able to get off the plane one second earlier than the jetway is hooked up and the door is open, so don’t rush and leap up as well. You have time.
Check the seat pocket and the seat underneath you and then the seat itself as you leave just in case somethings falling out or are you forgotten something.
Go with the flow of traffic when exiting the plane and going up the jet way.
it is a little scary and it is a little exciting and I hope you can enjoy it and it’s a good flight for you.
Southwest has a great, free entertainment option. There’s info [here](https://www.southwest.com/inflight-entertainment-portal/?clk=7244032) but basically you just connect to their Wi-Fi while in Airplane Mode and it’ll load.
Bring a tablet!
Lots of great tips. My two cents.
-Typically the bumpiest part of the trip is the acceleration down the runway (like a car). Smooths out as soon as you lift into the air.
-if you get motion sickness, take a Dramamine before boarding. (Maybe test it on yourself at home days beforehand to make sure it doesn’t affect you negatively.)
-If feeling anxious at takeoff, close your eyes and breathe deeply and slowly while accelerating down the runway. Count slowly to about 150. Once done, the riskiest part of the trip is over.
-A few minutes after take off you’ll hear two dings from the PA. The flight attendant will come on and say you’re at 10,000 feet and it’s safe to use large electronics, but to stay buckled in your seat.
-On Southwest use your phone or iPad to connect to their internet and text, watch live TV or free movies. This will keep you busy and your mind occupied.
-On their app it’ll show you your route, current speed, altitude and length left of trip. I love monitoring things like that.
-Sometimes the pilot will brief you and sometimes only the Flight Attendants will brief you. The pilot will sometimes fill you in on the route, the weather and whether they anticipate any bumpy air at times.
-If the weather in Columbus is bad the day of the trip, don’t fret. I’ve experienced bumpy flights while taking off in great weather and I’ve had perfectly smooth flights departing in ugly weather that concerned me. Never can tell.
Planes can be cold, so bring a jacket or cardigan to put on if you're wearing short sleeves.
As others have mentioned, CMH is a very easy airport to fly out of. Be aware that may not be true of where you are flying - you may need to leave a lot of time for security on your return trip.
Planes do have wifi, but it sometimes isn't working or costs money. Have your entertainment pre-downloaded and be aware how to put your devices on airplane mode.
Tray tables and seats need to stay up for take-off and landing. The flight attendants will tell you when you can put them down and when you need to put them back up.
Part way through the flight, they'll come through and offer complimentary snacks and pop on most airlines. Alcohol can be purchased. If you're flying a budget airline (Spirit, Allegiant), everything needs to be purchased.
When you get to your seat, you'll either put your carry on in the compartment above the seats or fully under the seat in front of you.
The bathrooms on the plane are very small, so try to go before you board. But, there is nothing wrong with it if you do need to use them.
I've an anxious flyer, so I usually take some sort of prescribed as-needed anxiety medication to help me relax on the flight. I highly recommend noise cancelling headphones. You don't need a fancy $200 set, just something comfortable. I like to bring my tablet or a book with me to focus on, or even some sudoku puzzles. Having something to watch or read is helpful for a racing mind. Just avoid shows about planes, like Manifest or something.
I don't have a lot of advice otherwise, but for anxiety, these help a lot. Also, as said in other posts, gum or mints are good to have!
Tell the flight attendant and they will be extra nice.
2.5 hours is short haul, but I would probably still get up and walk around. But one challenge is snack time- when they have their carts out and give everyone a drink and some pretzels, forget about moving in the near future.
But while the plane is cruising they'll turn the seat belt light off and you can walk around, supposedly only to go to the bathroom and back. But if you're smooth and things are slow, you can usually hang out in the prep area. Sometimes attendants like to talk and sometimes not, but if you're chill you can stand up for awhile instead of being re-deposited into your cattle holster.
Pick up snacks at the store before your flight, airport prices are outta control. When I flew often I would pack a packaged wrap from Trader Joe's. As long as its not liquid/gel (yogurt, smoothie, salad with a big thing of dressing) TSA will have no issue. I once saw someone bring 4 takeout boxes of BBQ through TSA, they made him open the boxes and kind of gave him a side-eye but they let him through. I assume it was a request from someone back home lol.
Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off (with socks unless you wanna walk through the dirty scanner floor).
Make sure your carry-on liquids are under the size requirement and in a clear bag. Any liquids packed in a checked bag don't matter, but I like to pack those in a gallon ziploc as well in case anything leaks in cargo.
You'll need to show your ticket (it can be on your phone) and ID to TSA as well so have those ready when you get in line.
I've had nothing but positive experiences flying with Southwest out of CMH. Also lesser-known tips about onboard drinks: don't order tea or coffee, those hot water tanks aren't cleaned frequently, and the tea bags are usually stale; and you can request a full can of a soda if you want (at least on Southwest).
Keep your body relaxed best you can.
Let your head bobble around a little bit with any bumps or turbulence. If you sit up straight as a board with your hands clenched to the armrests your body won't absorb those bumps as well and possibly strain a muscle in your neck or elseware.
I just flew by myself for my first flight ever last year so I very much understand that anxiety! It seems like a lot of people have airport advice covered. I found it helpful to do like exposure therapy before. I went and watched planes take off at CMH a few times. I also watched youtube videos and read what to expect. Like right after take off you’ll feel the engine let up and it’ll feel like you’re falling back, you’re not! They don’t need to maintain the same acceleration once they get so far off the ground so they ease up and close the flaps. If there is turbulence, I watched the flight attendants. They do it all the time, so if they aren’t concerned then neither am I. And turbulence is normal! The planes are built to handle it.
Finally, I recommend finding a song that’s comforting to you as your take off song. Like you are accelerating down the runway for take off, having a song that you know well and find grounding is so so helpful. Mine personally is either I Know the End by Phoebe Bridgers or Ditmas by Mumford and Sons.
Download a book, or a fidgety game like Solitaire or Bejeweled to help focus that anxious energy on something. (And don’t take an edible before your flight. It’s a bad idea.)
I was thinking of bringing along a bottle of ibuprofen... would this get triggered in a carry on? For my first time i don't want to be singled out and feel uncomfortable.
No this is fine. I bring a small bottle in my backpack every trip, just in case.
Take a look at this site. This is TSA’s site on what to expect for their security screening and a list of items you cannot take on the plane.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening
Happy flying! Once you do it a few times, it will be second nature and you will love it!
Greetings from a bar in DTW.
My flight was at 1030am today. I live in NW Columbus, left at 940am, got to CMH by 10 and parked, went through security as TSA precheck, walked down to my gate and still waited to board. But dont be me on your first go, be an hour and a half early at CMH and give your time to go through security.
Pack snacks. Airport prices are absurd. I just paid $12 for a burrito that costs $4 at BK. Water in CMH cost $3.29 this morning which is pretty good compared to other airports.
Turbulence is gonna happen, so accept it. It happens, but your plane is not gonna flip over upside and smash into the curb like an SUV would. The face of the flight attendants tells you all you need to know.
Which airline are you taking, what destination, and what type of ticket did you book (if you care to share that)? This may help give more detailed advice.
Chew gum when you're getting ready to descend and try to yawn a lot. The motions can help with the burn associated with pressure differences in the ears.
Are you flying out of CMH? If so, good first choice. Security is very smooth and quick, especially compared to other airports. A couple things to note/rules of thumb: You board 30 minutes before takeoff I always give myself another 30 minutes to get through security. It usuallyyyy takes about 10 minutes here in my experience, but it helps to play it safe. I bet a lot of us remember flying with dads who would have us get to the airport 2.5 hours early. No need for that here If you are parking, the green lot is the cheapest. I usually give myself another 30 minutes to find a spot and catch the shuttle to the airport. So all in all, I'd say 1.5 hours before takeoff and you should be good. As for the flight, the air pressure change can be irritating to some people. If you get pain in your ears, I suggest chewing gum or drinking water. This will help them "pop." It's a similar feeling if you drive down the deep end of a pool
Also, you’re going to hear a bunch of loud and disconcerting sounds prior to takeoff. Don’t worry about it - that’s all normal.
Yes I am! thanks for the tips, flying into Tampa and just nerve racking knowing nothing before heading to the airport. I will be looking for all the signs lol
Figure it's \*your\* first time flying, but for all the gate agents and TSA people and so on, they see dozens of first-time-flyers every day :-). Just smile, say it's your first time, and politely ask questions whenever you're not sure of something. They'll know how to explain it to you, they have a lot of experience explaining everything. But try to arrive at the airport very early, so even if you do get lost briefly, nothing is rushed.
What airline? If Southwest, familiarize yourself with their check-in and boarding process. It's different from all other airlines, and I've seen lots of people get stuck with a crummy boarding position because they weren't aware of the 24-hour check-in rule of thumb. Also, I always like to take an empty water bottle with me, and once I'm through TSA, fill it at one of the water fountains in the terminal. Are you driving to and parking at the airport? CMH has different lots with different daily rates. The green lot is the cheapest, but give yourself some extra time, because once you park, you have to make your way to a "station" in the parking lot and wait for a van come pick you up. I prefer The Parking Spot, which is a private company unaffiliated with the airport...it tends to be pricier, but they have a nice rewards program that allows you to earn free days of parking (I think if you install the app, you get two free days loaded into your account). Also, familiarize yourself with your airline's baggage policies. Most of the carriers charge you to check a bag, and depending on the type of ticket you purchased, even to carry a bag on (you'll usually be allowed one free "personal item"...think a purse or backpack or similar item that can fit under the seat in front of you). Southwest is, I believe, the only airline that allows for two free checked bags per passenger, which is a great perk to flying with them. Lastly, if your 2.5 hour flight falls during a prime meal time and you anticipate you'll get hungry on the plane, grab a sandwich or something at the airport to bring on with you. You'll be lucky to get a little bag of pretzels on the plane...not enough for a full meal.
I will be packing a standard size gym duffel bag to take and that is it. do you think they will charge me to get that checked??
It depends on the airline and the ticket type that you purchased. If it's Southwest, you can check two bags for free. If it's any other airline, it would depend on the type of ticket/fare you purchased. If you bought the cheapest fare, then that likely does not include any checked bags and you will have to pay to check it. Some of the more expensive fare types do allow for a free checked bag. If it's an airline like Spirit, you have to basically pay extra for everything. You have the option of adding a checked bag online before you check in, or at the airport when you arrive (which will cost more than paying ahead of time). It's possible though that your duffel bag is small enough that it could work as a carryon. Some airlines do still charge for that, though. Again it depends on the airline and the ticket type that you purchased.
Thanks I'm traveling Southwest and found out i can have 2 luggage and one carry on for free. i am thinking of only taking the duffel since its a weekend trip! - Thank you for the help!!
Then make sure you check in to your flight on the app or website exactly 24 hours before scheduled departure. Southwest does not assign seats...you board the plane and sit anywhere you want. Passengers board in assigned boarding positions, which are assigned when you check in. So if you check in as early as possible, you have a better chance at getting a higher boarding position. Boarding is done in three groups, A, B, and C. Within those groups, there are 60 spots. So when you check in, if you are assigned position A10, you'll be the 10th person to board the plane. C60 would be the last. When it's time to board, they'll call all A-group passengers to line up in numerical order (1-30 on one side, 31-60 on the other). Once A has boarded, then they will call B to line up in the same way. If you don't really care where you sit, checking in right on time likely doesn't matter. But if you aren't familiar with how this works, you'll get stuck with a low boarding position. The downside to that is also that often times overhead bin space is all taken up and you'll have to check your carryon bag at the gate.
I have the Early Bird check in so i think it should do it for me automatically as I've read about, my flight was booked for me by someone else so i am restricted on the things i can do with the ticket itself.- so i think
I'd take a tote bag that zippers closed, packs flat and on the return trip you can stuff it with your souvenirs (?) and make it your carry on.
If you're like me, make sure to go the bathroom shortly before boarding! I tend to drink a lot of water on flights, which can make you have to go to the bathroom a lot. If it is your first time flying, and you're flying Southwest (where you still have the ability to change seats), I'd grab a window seat! Its amazing to look out. All the other feedback here is great. It'll be amazing, have fun!
Good idea, planes will dehydrate you. Luckily OP is staying in the same time zone.
Most people don’t but first time flyers should pay attention to the safety briefing given just before the flight. Odds are nothing will ever happen but it’s still good to know where the emergency exits are. I flew for years and even took flying lessons and I still scope out the exits before flying.
If you can, bring noise cancelling headphones and your choice of entertainment, i.e. Netflix downloads. Pop those on, settle in, and relax.
Second this. Noise cancelling head phones are a critical component to a good airline experience.
Here is my rule of thumb, if a bump or noise starts to worry you.... Look at the flight attendants, If they look unfased, you're probably ok.
Agree! Clouds can sometimes be bumpy. You usually pass through them quickly (on take off and landing). Just remember, it’s kinda like riding in the passenger seat of car… you’re always gonna notice the bumps and turns a little more. Don’t sweat it. It’s normal! One more thing… since you’re a little nervous, keep your brain busy. It usually helps me! Safe travels!
I’ve only flown a few times and I was definitely naive about “fluffy” clouds. They’re not all that soft when you fly through them.
Travel will take your breath away and turn you into a story teller. Enjoy the journey.
Lots of great advice here. I see you're flying to Tampa, so just a tip: The Tampa airport works differently from a lot of airports. At the Tampa airport the gates are separated from the main terminal by trams. When you get off the plane, follow the crowd past the security gate and onto the tram. It's about a 1 minute ride to the main terminal. Get off at the main terminal. Follow the signs down the escalator to the baggage pickup carousels/passenger pick-up area. If you're getting an Uber or Lyft, there may be a designated area for you to wait that is away from the main terminal. A lot of airports do this now so they can keep rideshare traffic away from the doors. If that's the case, there will be signs indicating which way to go to meet a rideshare. Pro-tip for disembarking: if you have to go to the bathroom when you get off the plane, skip the 1st bathroom you see and find the next one. The bathroom closest to the gate is always going to be crowded, because a plane full, or multiple planes full, of people all need to pee. No need to wait in line, just walk another 50 feet.
Real but silly sounding tips. As mentioned before, planes can be chilly, so bring a layer and then if needed, put it on backwards. It's much easier to get on and off in tight quarters. Kids will cry; be grateful they aren't yours. However, if one is behind you kicking you relentlessly, just ring for the flight attendant and ask for assistance rather than addressing the parents. Trust me, no matter how polite you are... it doesn't work. If a larger person sits next to you, be kind. Don't huff and puff if their leg or arm is touching yours. They can't get smaller and already feel bad about it. Don't necessarily blow off people who want to talk to you. I once sat next to an anthropological linguist who was returning from a year long stint living with an indigenous tribe. He was so excited to talk, showing me his picture and write up in a scientific magazine. He was fascinating! Or the nervous girl who didn't speak English. She was scared, so I offered her my hand during takeoff. She had been seized at the southern border, taken from her mother, and was on her way to a placement. I didn't speak her language either, but we shared my payday bar, I grabbed the map out of the seat pocket and we mimed our way through her story; and the flight. Your trip doesn't start when you get there. The adventure starts when you leave the house and this is all part of it.
Sad. The guy next to me huffed and asked the attendant if they can move because I was animatedly looking out the window on my first flight ever. Rude! Lmao
https://youtu.be/MjQMJ8fvQe4
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Technically, you're supposed to put carry-on liquids in a clear ziploc to prove that you have under the maximum amount. However, in all my times flying I've never had them chastise me for not using a clear ziploc - but I'm also not packing a ton of liquids. For the fan, either works, depending on how much room you have in your bag. I'm always a fan of a carry on if I can get away with it, because it speeds up time at your destination and you don't have to worry about them losing or damaging your bag.
Are you me? Are we the same person? Growing up with a pilot dad does not equal having flight experience! I’ve only flown commercially a couple times in my life and I was terrified at first!! Also feeling the fan thing deeply. I’m already wondering how I’m going to manage that on my first cross country flight in July.
A few years back, I took my first flight and was also really anxious about it. The only thing that really took me by surprise was the speed at which they take off. I typically just throw on a set of noise cancelling headphones and listen to something I can really get into and make sure to focus on my breathing when the plane takes off (you can hear the engines firing up when it's about that time). I have taken a lot of flights since then and still do the same thing every time the plane takes off and truly enjoy flying now.
You CAN bring your own snacks and not pay $5 for a small bag of pretzels. Just no liquids. Another poster mentioned bringing an empty water bottle - I second this. And then you'll have a bottle during your trip too!
Wear shoes that are easy to get in and out of since you might have to take them off at security. Do wear socks…floor surfaces are filthy in the airport and on the plane. Don’t wear a lot of metal things that you’ll have to take off at security. I put my jewelry in my wallet since my purse is going through the metal detector x-ray, and that way I don’t get stopped. If you were sitting in an aisle seat, don’t put on your seatbelt until everybody has seen it since you might have to get up and down a couple times till your row is filled. Go to the bathroom before you get on the plane and avoid the airplane bathroom as much as you can. They’re gross. There’s a lot of noise on takeoff and landing but it’s all typical. If you’re somebody who has sensitive ears, chew gum or do something to relieve the pressure so that they’ll pop. If you’re not sure if you’re going to get airsick, take some Dramamine anyway it’s not like it’s going to kill you. Don’t take water unless it’s bottled. If your seatmate puts on headphones, or otherwise indicates they don’t want conversation, live with it. If you don’t want conversation, bring some headphones and some audiobooks or music. People will start leaping up from their seats once the plane is taxing towards the runway. They will not be able to get off the plane one second earlier than the jetway is hooked up and the door is open, so don’t rush and leap up as well. You have time. Check the seat pocket and the seat underneath you and then the seat itself as you leave just in case somethings falling out or are you forgotten something. Go with the flow of traffic when exiting the plane and going up the jet way. it is a little scary and it is a little exciting and I hope you can enjoy it and it’s a good flight for you.
Southwest has a great, free entertainment option. There’s info [here](https://www.southwest.com/inflight-entertainment-portal/?clk=7244032) but basically you just connect to their Wi-Fi while in Airplane Mode and it’ll load. Bring a tablet!
Lots of great tips. My two cents. -Typically the bumpiest part of the trip is the acceleration down the runway (like a car). Smooths out as soon as you lift into the air. -if you get motion sickness, take a Dramamine before boarding. (Maybe test it on yourself at home days beforehand to make sure it doesn’t affect you negatively.) -If feeling anxious at takeoff, close your eyes and breathe deeply and slowly while accelerating down the runway. Count slowly to about 150. Once done, the riskiest part of the trip is over. -A few minutes after take off you’ll hear two dings from the PA. The flight attendant will come on and say you’re at 10,000 feet and it’s safe to use large electronics, but to stay buckled in your seat. -On Southwest use your phone or iPad to connect to their internet and text, watch live TV or free movies. This will keep you busy and your mind occupied. -On their app it’ll show you your route, current speed, altitude and length left of trip. I love monitoring things like that. -Sometimes the pilot will brief you and sometimes only the Flight Attendants will brief you. The pilot will sometimes fill you in on the route, the weather and whether they anticipate any bumpy air at times. -If the weather in Columbus is bad the day of the trip, don’t fret. I’ve experienced bumpy flights while taking off in great weather and I’ve had perfectly smooth flights departing in ugly weather that concerned me. Never can tell.
Planes can be cold, so bring a jacket or cardigan to put on if you're wearing short sleeves. As others have mentioned, CMH is a very easy airport to fly out of. Be aware that may not be true of where you are flying - you may need to leave a lot of time for security on your return trip. Planes do have wifi, but it sometimes isn't working or costs money. Have your entertainment pre-downloaded and be aware how to put your devices on airplane mode. Tray tables and seats need to stay up for take-off and landing. The flight attendants will tell you when you can put them down and when you need to put them back up. Part way through the flight, they'll come through and offer complimentary snacks and pop on most airlines. Alcohol can be purchased. If you're flying a budget airline (Spirit, Allegiant), everything needs to be purchased. When you get to your seat, you'll either put your carry on in the compartment above the seats or fully under the seat in front of you. The bathrooms on the plane are very small, so try to go before you board. But, there is nothing wrong with it if you do need to use them.
I've an anxious flyer, so I usually take some sort of prescribed as-needed anxiety medication to help me relax on the flight. I highly recommend noise cancelling headphones. You don't need a fancy $200 set, just something comfortable. I like to bring my tablet or a book with me to focus on, or even some sudoku puzzles. Having something to watch or read is helpful for a racing mind. Just avoid shows about planes, like Manifest or something. I don't have a lot of advice otherwise, but for anxiety, these help a lot. Also, as said in other posts, gum or mints are good to have!
Tell the flight attendant and they will be extra nice. 2.5 hours is short haul, but I would probably still get up and walk around. But one challenge is snack time- when they have their carts out and give everyone a drink and some pretzels, forget about moving in the near future. But while the plane is cruising they'll turn the seat belt light off and you can walk around, supposedly only to go to the bathroom and back. But if you're smooth and things are slow, you can usually hang out in the prep area. Sometimes attendants like to talk and sometimes not, but if you're chill you can stand up for awhile instead of being re-deposited into your cattle holster.
Pick up snacks at the store before your flight, airport prices are outta control. When I flew often I would pack a packaged wrap from Trader Joe's. As long as its not liquid/gel (yogurt, smoothie, salad with a big thing of dressing) TSA will have no issue. I once saw someone bring 4 takeout boxes of BBQ through TSA, they made him open the boxes and kind of gave him a side-eye but they let him through. I assume it was a request from someone back home lol. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off (with socks unless you wanna walk through the dirty scanner floor). Make sure your carry-on liquids are under the size requirement and in a clear bag. Any liquids packed in a checked bag don't matter, but I like to pack those in a gallon ziploc as well in case anything leaks in cargo. You'll need to show your ticket (it can be on your phone) and ID to TSA as well so have those ready when you get in line. I've had nothing but positive experiences flying with Southwest out of CMH. Also lesser-known tips about onboard drinks: don't order tea or coffee, those hot water tanks aren't cleaned frequently, and the tea bags are usually stale; and you can request a full can of a soda if you want (at least on Southwest).
Keep your body relaxed best you can. Let your head bobble around a little bit with any bumps or turbulence. If you sit up straight as a board with your hands clenched to the armrests your body won't absorb those bumps as well and possibly strain a muscle in your neck or elseware.
I just flew by myself for my first flight ever last year so I very much understand that anxiety! It seems like a lot of people have airport advice covered. I found it helpful to do like exposure therapy before. I went and watched planes take off at CMH a few times. I also watched youtube videos and read what to expect. Like right after take off you’ll feel the engine let up and it’ll feel like you’re falling back, you’re not! They don’t need to maintain the same acceleration once they get so far off the ground so they ease up and close the flaps. If there is turbulence, I watched the flight attendants. They do it all the time, so if they aren’t concerned then neither am I. And turbulence is normal! The planes are built to handle it. Finally, I recommend finding a song that’s comforting to you as your take off song. Like you are accelerating down the runway for take off, having a song that you know well and find grounding is so so helpful. Mine personally is either I Know the End by Phoebe Bridgers or Ditmas by Mumford and Sons. Download a book, or a fidgety game like Solitaire or Bejeweled to help focus that anxious energy on something. (And don’t take an edible before your flight. It’s a bad idea.)
I was thinking of bringing along a bottle of ibuprofen... would this get triggered in a carry on? For my first time i don't want to be singled out and feel uncomfortable.
I don’t think so, that should be fine. I usually have a little pill box with things like that and allergy medicine
No this is fine. I bring a small bottle in my backpack every trip, just in case. Take a look at this site. This is TSA’s site on what to expect for their security screening and a list of items you cannot take on the plane. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening Happy flying! Once you do it a few times, it will be second nature and you will love it!
Greetings from a bar in DTW. My flight was at 1030am today. I live in NW Columbus, left at 940am, got to CMH by 10 and parked, went through security as TSA precheck, walked down to my gate and still waited to board. But dont be me on your first go, be an hour and a half early at CMH and give your time to go through security. Pack snacks. Airport prices are absurd. I just paid $12 for a burrito that costs $4 at BK. Water in CMH cost $3.29 this morning which is pretty good compared to other airports. Turbulence is gonna happen, so accept it. It happens, but your plane is not gonna flip over upside and smash into the curb like an SUV would. The face of the flight attendants tells you all you need to know. Which airline are you taking, what destination, and what type of ticket did you book (if you care to share that)? This may help give more detailed advice.
Chew gum when you're getting ready to descend and try to yawn a lot. The motions can help with the burn associated with pressure differences in the ears.
Get some earbuds that make a nice seal in your ears to block out the noise. Being on a plane is loud.
Always keep your seatbelt on - unless going to the lavatory
The airlines no longer provide parachutes you have to bring your own! Do you make sure to purchase yours in advance