10 things you should know before traveling by plane

10 things you should know before traveling by plane

1. What can’t the luggage be carried?

Explosives and flammable substances are prohibited in carry-on and hold luggage. These include gas cylinders, firecrackers, among others.

For security reasons, you will not be able to carry sharp-pointed items in your luggage such as scissors with pointed ends, scalpels, corkscrew, tweezers, etc.

The strictest standards apply for liquids. You will not be able to carry more than 10 bottles of 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag, in your hand luggage. Of the limits described, two exceptions apply to the transport of dairy foods for babies and medicines, of the latter you can carry the amount that is necessary during the trip.

2. Packing is a true art

Each airline has its own requirements regarding the size and weight allowed in carry-on and holds luggage. It is important not to exceed these restrictions because otherwise, you will have to pay an additional value for excess baggage at the airport.

Most airlines allow you to carry in the cabin, in addition to hand luggage, a second smaller bag that can be a purse or a laptop bag.

Since checked baggage will go a long way before reaching your hands again, you must pack in such a way that no fragile items are damaged or broken.

3. Prepare for check-in

Not only will they check your luggage at the airport, but they will also do a check on you before going to the departure lounge. When your turn comes, you will have to take a basket that is just before the scanner tape and put all the belongings that you carry in your pockets there. If required, you must also remove your jacket/shirt, scarf, trouser belt, etc.

Afterward, your articles will go through the scanner through the belt, and you must go through the control door, they may ask you to take off your shoes.

4. Each country has its own rules

The transport of food, for example, is not prohibited by any airline. However, some rules must be followed depending on the company, the destination, and the amount of food. Some countries, such as the USA or Australia, prohibit the entry of fresh food into their territory.

Another case applies to the territory of the European Union where the entry of food, milk, meat, and products of animal origin from countries outside the European Community is prohibited.

Therefore, we recommend you check the regulations of the destination country and the transit countries.

5. Wear appropriate clothing for air travel

It seems trivial, but your outfit is worth paying attention to. The longer the trip, the more you will be able to perceive the effects of wearing inappropriate clothing.

The most important thing is to make sure it doesn’t squeeze or bother you. Even if you are traveling during the summer, dress in such a way that you can remove your socks and coats. The plane’s air conditioning works to keep you cool.

6. Phone only in flight mode

Despite more and more information proving that cell phones do not interfere with the proper functioning of aircraft, most airlines prohibit their use during the flight. You are only allowed to use them in “flight mode“.

Some aircraft allow passengers to use the Wi-Fi network onboard. However, it is generally a paid service.

7. You can eat on the plane

It is a myth that you cannot eat during the flight. In fact, if you are on a long journey and don’t buy takeout on board, you will starve. Bring small snacks or sandwiches that are odorless or crumbly.

Only beverage restrictions apply. To avoid having it removed, buy a drink in the departure lounge after you have passed the inspection.

Children’s food is a completely different topic. Parents or guardians can bring milk or other food in case they travel with babies. During the inspection, they must be shown separately. In most airplanes, it is possible to heat food in the microwave.

8. Sweets aren’t just for kids

During takeoff and landing, pressure changes cause the ears to plug. If you also get a runny nose, you can end up having a rather unpleasant feeling. But don’t worry, there are several ways to deal with this problem.

Try chewing gum or sucking on candy. This should ease the symptoms.

Get ready to travel, take a pre-flight nap, a light meal, and try to find something fun to keep you distracted. It can be a book, your favorite music, or a movie.

9. Children can get bored

Even if you’re the biggest aviation enthusiast, kids can get bored after a long time onboard, so it’s worth being prepared for this moment. If you can’t bring her favorite toys, make sure there are enough colored pencils and a few sheets of paper. You can ask the child to make a report of his trip (how is the plane, the airport, landscape, etc.)

Another thing you can do is use word games that do not require any physical object, such as rock paper or scissors, word – word, etc. You can also fantasize about guessing which places you are passing through, what the clouds look like based on their shape.

10. You can visit the cockpit

The pilot must agree. Ideally, ask before the flight starts as afterward the pilots will have a lot of work and they will be busy. If there are no delays and the crew is not in a hurry, the captain will probably give you a tour of the cabin.

Some airlines have special loyalty programs for children where points are awarded that entitle young passengers to explore the cabin.