If you don't want to encounter problems at the airport, either with check-in staff, security personnel or customs officials, it's a good idea to pay close attention to flight rules and regulations. This is particularly important if you have not flown for some years as regulations have become more stringent. Make sure to check the regulations of the particular airline you are flying with. Do this well before you are due to fly.
A valid passport is the most important thing to remember to take with you to the airport. International airline regulations dictate that every passenger must hold a valid passport, as it serves as legal documentation to allow you to board the plane and enter another country. Make sure well before your departure date that your passport hasn't expired.
Airlines generally allow each passenger to carry on one piece of hand luggage, which is included in the price of the original ticket. It is important to check the requirements of the particular airline you are flying with, as rules vary as to how large or heavy this luggage is allowed to be. Some budget airlines are very strict on limiting each passenger to one piece of hand luggage. They will even expect female passengers to be able to fit their handbags inside their carry-on bag. You must not carry prohibited items such as anything sharp in your hand luggage.
You should check with your airline as to how much luggage you are allowed to check in. Different airlines have different rules. Most airlines allow two pieces, with weight limits varying from 15 to 25kg. The prescribed amount of luggage will be included in your ticket price, and any extra will be charged by the kilo. Many budget airlines, such as Easy Jet or Ryan Air charge for every piece of luggage you check in. It is cheaper to pay for this online before you fly, rather than at the airport.
A plot by terrorists to blow up airliners using bombs disguised as soft drink bottles, which was exposed in August 2006, has changed rules surrounding what liquids are allowed to be brought on to planes. Before you fly, you must ensure all liquids and gels in your hand luggage, including lipstick, make-up and perfume are contained in a single, clear plastic bag, ready for inspection. Plastic bags are available at the airport. You are not allowed to carry on any liquid or gel which is more than 100ml in volume.
When travelling overseas, flight regulations require you to comply with having your hand luggage X-rayed. You must also walk through a metal detector. You will be required to remove all outer jackets, jewellery, belts with metal buckles, loose change, hats and sunglasses. These will all pass through the X-ray. If the metal detector beeps, you will be patted down and will probably be required to remove your shoes. These will then be X-rayed.
Before flying, you should check the customs regulations of the country you are flying to, as these may prohibit you from bringing certain items, such as foodstuffs or plants, into the country. You may be required to declare certain goods upon arrival.
Airline regulations state that passengers should ideally arrive as much as two hours before an international flight. This is to allow time to check in and clear immigration and security. It is up to you to ensure you reach the gate in time. If you have no check-in luggage and hold a pre-printed boarding pass, you can go directly to immigration and security.
