Never been on a plane before!

[Vivanna]

So i've never been on a plane before and if everything works out i will be going at the end of August! what should i expect? tips from people who travel by air a lot? ive only ever been in the waiting area outside to pick up my dad one time, so ANY tips, suggestions, etc would be HUGELY appreciated!
Thanks!

[kattermole]

Don't panic about random noise changes and bumpy bits, that's perfectly normal! Even when you're above the clouds, it can sometimes be a bit turbulent. I usually leave my seatbelt on the whole flight just in case of sudden turbulence, although you are free to take it off when the captain switches off the overhead seatbelt signs.
Electrical equipment (phones, laptops) can't be used at all for takeoff and landing, but can be used when you're in the air as long as they're on flight safe mode.
Make sure you're there in plenty of time so you aren't rushing, depending on what airport you are flying from, queues at security etc might be quite long so make sure you have plenty of time to go through the various checks.

[conejita_hada]

If you have any concerns or questions while your in the airport walking to your gate or even when you're on or boarding the plane, just ask someone in TSA at security, an attendant at any gate, or the flight attendant on your flight. Generally, everyone is helpful and if you explain it's your first time, they're more than willing to assist you. The attendants at the boarding gates all have access to looking up what gate your flight is at, even if it isn't that gate.
Flight attendants are usually accommodating and will help you if you need anything, at all. If you having a connecting flight and are worried about the time between getting off the first plane and to your second gate, tell the flight attendant. Especially if the first flight was delayed for any reason, they allow all passengers with connecting flights to get off the plane first. This also goes for if you're waiting in line at security, if you're cutting it close to your flight time, TSA will usually let you go ahead of the line so you don't miss your flight. (Although for that, I agree with PP to give yourself ample amount of time before your flight for check-in and security.)

**Edit: By TSA I just mean the airport security personnel, for some reason my mind automatically labels them "TSA" (even in Guatemala), sorry for the US slip!

[Goyangi]

Bring something to do. And one of those travel neck pillow things! They look a little ridiculous I think but I rely on mine to make it through long flights. I can sleep through anything. Also, I personally get airsick so I take some Dramamine and I'm good to go!

More logistical advice, while at the airport, pay attention to those screens with departure and arrival times! Sometimes gates listed on the screen differ from your ticket - go with the screen.

[Zapookie]

Be sure you're at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight for international, and 2 hours for domestic. You need as much time as possible to get through everything. I personally like to eat before I hop on, because if its a long flight, they usually won't serve a meal until 1 or 2 hours in and I get hungry .

If you bring liquids, make sure the containers are in a clear plastic bag if its your carry on - TSA actually didn't check my stuff so I'm not really sure what the measurements and sizes of things you need will be but you may be able to find that information on your airlines website.

Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity left on it.

Make sure you have the appropriate visa sorted prior to flying.

If you're flying from Aus to north america, it may be a bumpy flight as the winds are generally quite strong over the pacific. I just flew from AUS to Cali and it was bumpy for most of the flight but you get used to it after a while. The plane may drop a few feet and your stomach may feel like it's dropping too, but that's normal! Haha.

Wear comfortable clothes. It can be a bit chilly on some flights so wear a hoodie or something just in case.

[Tooki]

BRING A PEN. You will need to fill out a customs card (the flight attendants will give one to you on the flight to Australia) to hand to the customs officer when you clear immigration. Also declare ANY food that you bring into Australia (including chocolate and crisps etc). Australian customs is very anal about declaring the relevant items.

Also, are you flying straight to Melbourne or will you have a stopover in Sydney?

Bring a jumper as well. Southern Victoria may still be a bit chilly (but probably not).

On th liquids side, you must put the liquids into a 1L clear plastic bag. You can usually buy the bag at the airport in the US. Also, you can only carry liquids up to 100mL. From my past experiences, the bag will probably be checked in Australia.

[Dezface]

I personally recommended (and I know a lot of people disagree) booking a good airline. Some people book the cheapest ticket possible and that's OK, I would if I had to too. But if you can afford the bit extra, book the airline that has a bit newer aircraft and more amenities. Especially for that long of a flight. I HATE flying but being on a plane I feel comfortable on makes me feel a bit better.

[Tooki]

I personally recommended (and I know a lot of people disagree) booking a good airline. Some people book the cheapest ticket possible and that's OK, I would if I had to too. But if you can afford the bit extra, book the airline that has a bit newer aircraft and more amenities. Especially for that long of a flight. I HATE flying but being on a plane I feel comfortable on makes me feel a bit better.

I agree! It makes a big difference on a 10 hour flight.

[Riyko]

If you are flying out of Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), they have some restaurants behind security, but most are before like swiss chalet.

Keep your boarding pass and passport out until you've cleared security, many people put them away but the security people at the airport randomly check to see your boarding pass and passport.

I agree bring a pen, customs forms will have to be filled out, but you can do the crossword puzzles in the back of the magazines provided on the airplanes.

Also declare, declare, declare not just for Australia but anywhere, i declare baby formula and rice cereal even though i don't have to when i travel but i do to be on the safe side.

Research, research what has to be declared and what doesn't, also what you can and can't bring into the country (for instance in Chile, you can't bring almonds or products with almonds into the country even if you declare them you'll still get them taken away)