Let’s face it – the excitement of an upcoming trip can quickly turn into stress when you’re rushing to prepare for your flight.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or not, a pre-flight checklist can mean the difference between starting your journey calm or panicked.
We’ve curated 15 essential pre-flight tasks, arranged in the order you’ll typically tackle them.
15 Things You Should Do Before Boarding a Plane
From checking the weather to documenting your parking spot, this guide covers everything you need to prepare for a smooth takeoff.
1. Monitor Weather at Both Ends
Check the weather forecast for both your departure and arrival cities several days in advance.
This helps you pack appropriately and anticipate potential flight delays.
2. Check the Airline’s Luggage and Size Requirements
Check weight limits and dimensions for both carry-on and checked baggage.
Measure and weigh your packed luggage to avoid airport surprises.
Note: Carry-on allowances typically include personal items like laptop bags or purses.
3. Download Essential Travel Apps
Download and test essential travel apps before your departure day.
- Airline app: For mobile boarding passes, real-time updates, and baggage tracking
- Airport apps: Get terminal maps, security wait times, and gate locations
- Transport apps: Local ride-share or transit options for your destination
4. Download Entertainment Content
Prepare your in-flight entertainment well before departure.
Download offline content including:
- Movies and TV shows from streaming services
- Podcasts for varied listening options
- E-books or audiobooks
- Music playlists
- Games that work without internet connection
Load enough content for at least double your flight time to account for delays.
Test all downloads before leaving home to ensure they work properly in airplane mode.
5. Create a Digital Document Hub
Keep all your important travel documents in one easily accessible digital location.
Save your boarding pass, hotel reservations, travel insurance, and passport copies to your phone’s offline storage or a secure cloud service.
6. Organize Your Travel Documents
Create a dedicated travel document folder for essentials like passport, boarding passes, hotel reservations, and insurance papers.
For international travel, include any required visas or health documentation.
7. Create a Flight Health Kit
Pack any necessary medications in their original containers, along with prescriptions and doctor’s notes if needed.
Include basic over-the-counter medicines for headaches, stomach issues, and motion sickness.
8. Pack an Emergency Kit
Prepare for unexpected situations with a small emergency kit including a portable charger, universal adapter, and a list of emergency contacts.
Include photocopies of important documents and a small amount of emergency cash separate from your main valuables.
9. Prepare a Flight Comfort Kit
Assemble a small comfort kit with items like an eye mask, earplugs, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and moisturizer.
For long-haul flights, include compression socks, a light blanket, and basic toiletries.
10. Organize Your Carry-On Strategically
Pack your carry-on using the layer system: most frequently needed items on top, less urgent items below.
Create a small “security kit” with your ID, boarding pass, and other documents you’ll need to access quickly.
Use clear pouches for liquids and electronics to speed up security checks.
11. Prepare Electronic Devices and Charging Solutions
Get all your electronic gear ready for travel:
- Fully charge all devices (phones, tablets, e-readers, laptops, headphones)
- Pack essential charging equipment:
- USB cables compatible with in-flight systems
- Portable power bank for backup power
- Universal travel adapters for international plugs
- Multi-port charger to minimize adapter needs
- Both wireless and wired headphones for backup
- Organize cables with cord organizers or small pouches
12. Pre-Book Airport Transportation
Reserve your airport transportation in advance for both departure and arrival.
Whether it’s a taxi, ride-share, or airport shuttle, having confirmed transportation reduces stress and ensures you won’t be stranded.
13. Create an Arrival Action Plan
Research your arrival terminal and create a step-by-step plan for getting through immigration, collecting luggage, and reaching your accommodation.
Save offline maps of the airport layout and know which transportation options are available at your arrival time.
14. Set Up Smart Luggage Tracking
If checking bags, photograph your luggage and attach smart tracking devices if possible.
Many airlines now offer bag tracking through their apps – set this up before departure.
15. Take Documentation Photos
Take strategic photos before your journey to prevent potential headaches:
- Parking location: Photograph your parking spot, including level number, section color/letter, and nearby landmarks
- Luggage contents: Take detailed photos of packed items for insurance claims
- External luggage: Photograph all sides of your suitcases, including any distinctive marks or tags
- Bag tags: Once checked in, photograph all luggage receipts and bag tag numbers
Final Thoughts on How to Prepare for a Flight
A well-prepared traveler is a relaxed traveler. By following this checklist, you’ll avoid common pre-flight stresses and set yourself up for a smoother journey from door to destination.
Ready to become an even savvier traveler? Check out these essential guides:
- Best Airport Tips & Tricks
- 15 Things You Should Never Do On a Plane
- How to Survive Long-Haul Flights
