Let’s just say it’s your first time flying. Or maybe you haven’t been in the air for a while. Perhaps you’re nervous about the flight, but you’re also nervous about what to do to get ready for your flight: you’ll need to get there, check in, get through security, get to your gate, and then take off.

Here are some helpful tips for flying for the first time, or for the first time in a long time.

Getting Ready

First of all, you’ll want to find out what Australia allows you to take. If you’re flying internationally, find out what the country you’re going to allows you to bring in. There are restricted items, so be sure that you look up a list of items that are off limits, and don’t bring any of those. It would just delay your flight and make it inconvenient for you to have to get rid of the items at security.

Next, you’ll want to decide whether or not to check a bag. Think about the good side of carrying your items with you. This way, you won’t have to worry about lost luggage, time constraints, or the fact that your connecting flight could be delayed. But if you do choose to check a bag, you’ll be able to take a lot more with you, so this is not necessarily a bad move. It’s up to you, but think about making a list of pros and cons and deciding what works best for the trip you have ahead of you.

You’ll want to make sure that you check your flight online before you get to the airport, and you’ll also want to be sure to arrive at the airport 2 hours before takeoff. Be sure you take airport parking options into consideration. If you know that you have good airport parking options, take advantage of them, and be sure that you are prepared to pay a little bit more for an excellent experience so that you won’t miss your flight. If you live somewhere where public transportation is an option, this is something to consider, but the lots at the airport and around it are generally a better deal, and you won’t be caught on a bus with a load of luggage to haul to your gate.

Checking In

Once you get to your gate, if you need to check a bag, you can do so there. You’ll have to wait in line, and the attendant will weigh your luggage for you to make sure it’s the right size to fly with. If you have only carry-on bags, you can move more quickly to the next step.

Security

If you go through security with knowledge of what you’re allowed to bring, that’s the best plan. Be ready to take off your shoes and your belt, and any other metal items that you may be wearing, including jewelry. You’ll also want to remove your laptop from your bag if you’re traveling with one, and be sure that you keep it with your other items, such as shoes and belt. Always keep your boarding pass on hand throughout this process.

Boarding

Finally, you’ll go to your gate. Be prepared to board, and be sure that you listen carefully for your seat number to be called out so that you can get on the plane. These tips apply, also, to any connecting flights you may have as you prepare to fly for the first time or for the first time in years. And, with great parking options, you will have already made yourself comfortable for the trip, so just sit back and enjoy the ride.