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Flying Alone Overseas
I am going to be flying by myself overseas this summer. I have flown overseas before, but never by myself (the last time being last year).
I am not afraid of the actual flying part, but I am pretty scared about getting lost in the airport (I might be flying through Chicago... that airport is HUGE), missing my flight, having my stuff stolen (especially once I'm overseas).
I'm smart and I do have common sense, but I would really like some tips and maybe even some stories of your own travels.
Oh, and yes I do know that there's people at the airport I can ask for help, but I would be more confident and feel more accomplished if I'm able to do as much as I can by myself.
Thanks!
18/F
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Maybe give some free advice about: Random Weirdos?
The airport can sometimes be intimidating when you're alone, wondering if you're going the right way or what you'll do if something goes wrong, but just remember, you've had to navigate unfamiliar places and catch buses and arrive somewhere early all your academic career, right? No sweat.
Double check your gate assignment once you get through security. It's unlikely, but sometimes they will move your gate, and the big TV monitors are updated every few minutes with gate changes, so be sure you're going to the right place. Checking in once you get to the correct gate is also something you can do to make you feel more comfortable and make sure the flight is going out on time.
If you haven't flown recently, any liquids you plan on carrying onto the plane now have to go through security in a 1 quart sized plastic bag, and none of the containers can be more than 3oz (you usually can get away with anything as long as it's in the plastic bag)
The airport website should have information on how you'll need to get around, if that will help too.
Make sure your passport or ID is up to date, that your name matches the one on your tickets, that you wear shoes that can easily be removed to get through security, and don't listen to your ipod so loud that you can't hear gate agent announcements.
Other than that you'll be fine! Happy flying!
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I've been flying just about every year since I was three years old and in two weeks I'll be flying alone for the first time. I think the key is to be totally organized and get to the airport really early (2 or 3 hours before your flight). Have all your tickets/boarding passes organized in the order of your flights (if you're taking more than one). I know Chicago is a huge airport, if I remember correctly they have either busses or trains that will take you from one end of the airport to the other. If you have to take one make sure you get on the right one. Airport signs are really usefull with finding your gate so pay close attention to them. Since you're going overseas make sure you know the language. I was in the airport at Paris in an elevator and had mixed up the words up&down. Ended up lost on the wrong floor looking for a door that wasn't there.
So organization is key. Don't put valuables in your bag that goes under the plane. Stay close to your gate, (my mother always goes wandering off and we always end up getting on the plane seconds before it leaves because we have to go find her).
Good luck!!
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