The best way to avoid missing a flight departure is to arrive early. If you miss your flight, you lose the cost of your ticket. Once you go to the airport, you need time to get through ticketing counters, baggage check and security lines. Baggage must be checked in 30 minutes before your flight leaves. Some airlines provide recommended arrival times on the company website. In general, arrive at the airport 75 minutes before your flight departs.
Whether flying in the United States or internationally, you need an official form of identification, such as a passport, driver's license or military identification. For international flights, you need a passport, visa and possibly other documents, depending on your scenario. Without proper identification, you can't check bags or get through security. Arriving early also helps if you forget something at home. You have enough time to call someone to bring your identification if necessary.
Once you arrive at the airport, you go through ticketing, where you receive a boarding pass and check bags. You need the credit card that you purchased your ticket with if you made an advanced purchase online or over the phone. Most airlines charge an extra fee for checking bags, but check your airline's restrictions before purchase. In addition, you pay more for bags that exceed the airline's weight limits.
You usually get to have one or two carry-on bags. However, carry-ons must be a smaller size than normal luggage. In general, most airlines have a maximum size of 45 linear inches, which is the total height, width and depth of the bag. Most airlines provide a carry-on measurement stand at their ticketing counters or at the terminal. If you get to the terminal and your bag does not fit, you will have to check the bag. Once you get on the plane, store lightweight carry-on bags in the overhead compartment; heavier or valuable items should go under the seat in front of you.
Airport security requires all passengers to follow strict procedures. You must have your boarding pass and proper identification ready at the security checkpoint. When going through security, you must remove belts and shoes, place all carry-on items on a X-ray conveyor belt and go through the advanced imaging technology barrier. Metal objects like watches and belts must go on to the conveyor to avoid setting off the alarm. If you have body piercings, airport security further checks you with hand-held scanners. You may be required to further undress if you continue to set off the alarm. If possible, pack laptops and full-sized electronics into checked bags or do not bring them -- they may require further checking and slow down the security process.
