First-time flyer looking for advice

[TimeLady]

So... I'm leaving in just a few days yay and it will not only be the first time I'm flying down to Disney World, it'll be the first time I've ever flown at all. You guys are always such a wealth of helpful tips, tricks and suggestions, so I wanted to ask for any advice you might have for a first-time flyer. Whether it's about MCO, packing, Magic Express, airport security or anything else, I'd love to hear it!

 

[kathie859]

I'd advise you to read the TSA website. It will clarify what you can carry on and what has to be checked. Also, at the airport, just watch the people in front of you and do what they do! Have you photo ID and boarding pass handy and allow plenty of time.

ME is easy to find. The directions are in the packet which was sent to you.

Good luck and have a great trip.

 

[DVC California]

Get to your home airport at least 2 hrs before the flight to allow time to check bags, get boarding passes, clear security, walk to gate, etc.

Liquids/gels greater than 3..4 oz are not allowed through security.
http://www.tsa.gov/311/311-carry-ons.shtm
However, once past security, anything you purchase inside the airport is allowed on the plane (water, coffee, jelly doughnuts, etc).

When going through security, you must remove your shoes, jacket, hat, any any metal objects (keys, coins, cell phones, watch, belt buckles, etc). Place these in the plastic bins to go though the x-ray machine.

If you have a laptop, take it out of it's carrying case and place both in a plastic bin.

You will have to walk though either a metal detector or body scanner to check for weapons.

Once you clear security, gather all your items and step aside. Most of the time, there will be chairs nearby so you may sit, put on shoes, and organize your possessions.

Head to the gate assigned for your flight. It may be printed on your boarding pass or you may have to check the monitors for departure information.

The airline will board by assigned groups. Check your boarding pass for this.

Once on board, place your carry-ons in the overhead compartments near your seat. If you have a rolling carry-on, stow this wheels in first to maximize room for other passengers. Other smaller items (hand bags) should be stowed under the seat in front of you.

During take off and arrival, all seat backs and tray table must be in the original upright and locked position. All electronic items with an on/off switch should be turned off.

When you arrive at Orlando, follow everyone off the plane or follow the signs that read Baggage Claim/Ground Transportation. There will be a short monorail ride from the gate area to the main terminal.

If you checked your bags and used the Magical Express yellow tags, proceed to the Disney's Magical Express Welcome Center in the Main Terminal Building, B side, Level 1. Your luggage will be collected by DME and delivered to you room.

If you are arriving after 10pm, or did not put on the yellow tags, you will have to claim the bags yourself and carry them with you on the DME motorcoach.

HTH, Steve

 

[TimeLady]

Thanks, guys! I appreciate it so much!

 

[Gumbo4x4]

If you want to tick off everyone else on the plane, here is your plan:

1) Bring an oversized carry-on bag that just BARELY fits in the overhead bin.

2) Fill it up with so much junk you can't possibly lift it into the bin by yourself.

3) When leaving the plane, do not stand in your row and allow other passengers to pass by while you pull your bag down. Instead, step into the aisle and struggle with your bag while everyone on the plane behind you waits for you to get moving. You won't need to practice; most folks get this one right the very first time out.

You'll really have to work hard at messing things up though. 99% of flyers - including veteran flyers - are guilty of ALL of the above & then some

Personally, I think the experience is much more enjoyable if you check your bag and bring onto the plane one SMALL carry-on that will fit under the seat in front of you. Put only your necessities (medications, toothbrush, ID, and a spare pair of socks & undies just in case your checked bag gets diverted) and valuables in this bag.

And in all seriousness, just go with the flow & watch everyone else (as previously mentioned) and you'll be fine

 

[Carriemel]

I work for TSA, so if you have any questions at all, please PM me. I'll help ya however I can.

 

[gojoe]

Don't carry cupcakes in glass jars it will be considered a liquid. TSA is not always the same at each airport. Some of the things they tell you are OK to bring on your carry on might get flagged. Always take at least one days change of clothes and anything you might need (medicine, phones, toothbrush). Just in case your checked luggage gets lost or delayed.
Nothing against any TSA personnel they do a great job. I've always found them very professional.