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avigating through an airport can be a daunting task, especially for first-time travelers. With so many people, signs, and processes to follow, it can be easy to get lost or confused. Not to mention that it is possible to be scared to travel in this way! However, with a few basic tips and tricks, you can make your airport experience smoother and stress-free. In this guide, we will provide you with the essential information you need to know to navigate through any airport like a pro.
This article will also equip you with an icon timeline of your steps in the airport and the photographic “step by step” (that you can find at the end of the story, or here).
Every airport is the same
For first-time travelers, visiting an airport can be an overwhelming experience. There are so many impulses attacking you from every direction – people, noises, cars, luggage, signs, and so on. Finding simply one path to follow seems an impossible task. However, one thing that can make the experience easier is knowing that all airports are essentially the same.
While airports may differ in their layouts, designs, sizes, and the services they offer, the fundamental processes that a traveler must go through are similar across the board. For example, you will always need to check in for your flight and go through security before boarding your plane. You will also find similar amenities and services at every airport, such as restaurants, shops, and lounges.
In addition to the processes, there are also universal symbols and pictograms that are used at all airports to help passengers find their way around. These include signs for gates, baggage claim, restrooms, and other important areas. By using these standard signs and symbols, airports ensure that travelers can navigate their way through the airport with ease, regardless of where they are in the world.
Moreover, traveling with the same airline or to the same destination multiple times can make you feel more comfortable with the airport and its processes, as you become familiar with the layout and the locations of different facilities and services. However, even if you are traveling to a new destination or have never been to a particular airport before, you can feel confident that you will be able to navigate it successfully by keeping the following similarities (aka steps) in mind.
Looking for the signs
DEPARTURE
Check-in for your flight – once you safely arrive at the airport you need to find the screens that will tell you which counter for the check-in you are looking for.
Drop off your main luggage (if you have any) – at the counter, you show your passport and in return, you get the ticket and you get your main luggage taken from you. At this point you should only have the hand luggage
Go through security screening – they will check you and your personal belongings (hand luggage). Remember not to take the things you are not allowed. Liquids (yes yogurt is one!) must be stored in a separate transparent bag in 100 ml containers. However, a sandwich will go through security.
It may also be necessary that you take a train before you reach the duty-free zone.
Either way one thing is certain – there will be only ONE way to the gates area. In doubt – follow the crowds.
Find your boarding gate – after the security check you first need to gather your things and remember to breathe. Look around, find next screens with the list of flights and if you don’t see them just follow where everyone is going.
Wait at the gate until your flight is called for boarding – the screens of the duty free zone will show you the way to your designated gate. Find your flight using the time/destination/operator/number and the gate number will be at the end of the line. Then look around and find the airport signs with the right number and follow them.
Board your flight – after waiting at the gate, relaxing, browsing through the duty free zone, or eating you can board your flight. They usually start to let people in 30 minutes before the take off and they close the gate around 20 minutes before the take of. All the advisable times are written on your plane ticket and they are subject to the individual opinion of the personnel but remember! If you stumble upon a rule follower, you won’t get through that gate even if you are just 2 minutes late.
Remember to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight departure, as the check-in and security processes can take some time. It’s also important to check your airline’s specific guidelines for check-in and boarding times.
departure
which check-in?
check-in
luggage drop off
get boarding card
security check
board train for gates
(if needed)
DUTY-FREE ZONE
It consists of two principal elements:
– shops
– gates for the planes
In addition, you will also find the necessities: restaurants, restrooms, signs, etc.
Obviously, this place is designed to help you wait till your flight time comes. You can eat there, rest in designated areas, smoke, and SHOP!
Firstly – not every duty-free has good and low prices. Be sure to make use of the Internet and check the prices before you buy anything.
Secondly – when buying the merchandise you will have to show your plane ticket, so don’t hide it too deep.
Third – food and drinks are usually more expensive than what you are used to.
And lastly – keep checking the time, because it flies fast when you are having fun. Make sure you know where to go and follow the signs to your gate.
Remember that there may be restrictions on the items you can purchase at duty-free shops, and don’t throw away the receipt until you leave the airport of your destination.
ARRIVAL
Here are the basic arrival steps at an airport:
Disembark from your plane (it takes a while before they open the door, so relax if you don’t want to stand)
Follow signs for baggage claim or for connecting flights. If you have another plane to catch the road will take you back to the duty-free zone where you will find your designated gate.
Proceed to passport control (if traveling internationally) – sometimes it is necessary that you go through it again on your arrival. They may also scan your luggage, but it is a simplified version of security control.
Show your passport and any necessary documents to teh officials, then…
Wait for your luggage at the baggage claim area – there is another set of screens that will help you find your way. Each lane has its own screen as well. Look for the departure city name or the flight number.
If the luggage doesn’t arrive, go to the lost luggage counter – it should be somewhere close to the arriving luggage lanes.
If you have nothing to declare at the customs, get out of the hall with your suitcase and follow the signs for your preferred means of transportation.
Remember to check your specific airport and destination for any additional arrival procedures or requirements, such as health screenings or visa requirements.
Final words
To give you some final last words – yes, it looks like a lot but it really isn’t. You just need to remember to stop sometimes and look what is written around you. Navigating the airport is like following the letters of the alphabet – there is an order to it, and it is always the same.
Want more ideas to help you survive it? Take something that will help you wait, like a book or a powerbank to charge your phone.
arrival
disembark plane
follow "baggage claim"
or "connecting flights"
passport check
luggage claim
lost and found
(if needed)
get out
look for taxi/train or bus
rent a car
or pick up
Step by step in pictures
1. Arrive at the terminal
2. Check the boards
3. Go to check-in counter
4. Get boarding card
5. Go to security control
6. Board train for gates
7. Enjoy duty-free
8. Wait at the gate
9. Disembark the plane
follow luggage or connections
10. Go through security
if necessary
11. Take your luggage
