First trip alone; need some help/advice?

Question

Alrighty.. For my 16th birthday gift my mother is buying me a ticket to go visit my family up in Washington during the whole month of september (state. Not D.C x-P ) This would be a first time for everything- first time on a plane ( & im afraid of heights), first time going anywhere alone, first time going out of state, first time meeting my family- uncles, aunts, brothers, grandparents etc. etc.

What am i supposed to do on the plane to keep my mind off everything? Like during take off & landing? How would i know where to go once in washington to get my bags & what not? What am i supposed to do so i dont feel guilty or upset without my family back in AZ? What do i take on the plane? Or what CAN i take? What will the weather be like in WA during the month of september? What places should i visit? ANY info at all about the plane & trip would be nice.. Thank you~ Cassi

Answer 1

I would recommend giving your relatives a call, or sending an e-mail. Ask them what they have planned for you, what the weather is like...not only will it help give you some better information, it will probably make it easier to go up there already having talked with them recently.

Air travel is safer than travel by automobile. It's just the lack of control that's nerve wracking. Pay attention during the safety information at the beginning of the flight (which I recommend to anyone...first time flying or not!). The worst part of the flight is usually the take off and landing, not because it's scary, but because the pressure changes, so it can make your ears feel weird, like when you touch the bottom in the deep-end of a pool. Most people like to chew gum to help; I personally find yawning to be the most effective. If you are the type of person who can sleep in the car, you might want to bring a travel pillow to take a nap, or you can bring some books, crossword puzzles, ipod...

You can pack pretty much anything legal in your checked luggage. In your carry-on, you can't have anything remotely weapon-like and you cannot have any liquids over 3oz. Any liquids, gels and aerosols 3 oz and under should be put in a ziploc and put in a location that's easy to get to in your carry-on. Since you are traveling by yourself, I recommend a backpack as a carry-on so that it is easy for you to bring along if you need to go to the bathroom or get a snack at the airport.

Going through security can seem a bit scary if you aren't used to it. Just be friendly to the security personnel, and follow their instructions, and you will be fine. Remember that they are there to keep you safe...I always feel much better being on an airplane knowing that everyone else's stuff was searched just as well as mine.

Once you arrive, they'll usually tell you which bag check area your plane's luggage will be at. There are usually signs that will point you in the right direction, but if you get turned around, there are all sorts of airport employees, even security personnel who can help you find your way. The luggage comes out on a conveyor belt, and when you see your suitcase, you just grab it and go. (I usually like to jazz up my suitcase with obnoxious ribbon or something to make it easier to identify.)

Traveling, especially by yourself, can be a bit intimidating...but it's so rewarding. I know you'll have a great time...have fun! :]

Answer 2

OKay on the plane: bring an mp3, ipod etc to listen to your favourite tunes.  bring a book or a magazine.  Maybe a portable dvd player and watch a movie? (don't forget the ear phones though) It's not a hugely long flight.  And don't worry, my fiance is TERRIFIED of heights, won't even clean the ceiling for me and he was fine on the plane, in fact he loves it.

During take off and landing either chew some gum or suck on some mints to prevent your ears from popping. you can't use electronics but as long as you keep your tray up you CAN read still.

Once you get off the plane there will be signs to baggage claim.  If you don't see them ask someone who works for the airline or airport.  They really don't mind.  You could always follow the crowd they usually head right there.  But there will be plenty of signs.

As for bringing stuff on the plane:  any liquids must be in bottles 3oz or smaller and all of those must fit into ONE 1 quart clear ziplock style bag. If you want any water, juice or soda you'll have to buy it once you've passed security.  They also offer soda and juice once your on the plane (free of charge)

Keep busy, you probably will get a little homesick at night (that always seems the worst time for it, when you're going to sleep) just try to think of all the fun you'll have the next day and what you'll be doing.

the weather should be great when you are there, warm and sunny.

for things to do: ask the family you're going to visit what they recommend

Anymore questions feel free to contact me through my profile here.

Good luck!!!!!

Answer 3

When you get on the plane just relax dont make it seem like its scary its fun! Just sit back in ur seat and BREATHE. you dont even feel like ur flying. When you get off the plane you can ask the peopel at the desk where to go or you can just follow the signs and arrows that are everwhere.

I hope you have a great time!

Answer 4

well for the plane i would say it seems super scarey but it actually really safe, safer than a car.i get kinda sick on take of so i chew gum or jolly rancher. relax take head phones magazine, game boy watever keeps u entertained. bring a carry on like a back pack. air line people can always help dont be afraid to ask. if u take the time to appriciate it looking out the planes window looks really cool when ur above clouds n stuff. just dont be scared ur safe.

Answer 5

wow thats relly nice i thing u shall go but i thing u will be fine because i believe that there is always an exit all u gotta do is find it or the light will always shine on you anyway thats just my belief. i have a few tips for u. first time on a plane- well bring something enjoyable like i pod and relax on the plane.- metting relativer- well be ur self cuz if u be urself everything will work out for example if u have short temper learn to calm down. during take off and landing  u shall chew gum it will help ur ear going deaf. take ur normal stuff like outfits and other stuff u need in ur everday life( dont take too much if u dont want to carry to much stuff) the weather in washington shall be hot or warm. i suggest u first thing in washington is shopping cuz they have the nicest oufits ever. hope it helps.

Answer 6

If you close your eyes and do slow inhales and exhales during take off and landing it helps a lot. Also chew gum during take off and landing so your ears don't pop.

I am scared of eights also but I love sitting and looking out the window. It's not so scary, it's actually pretty cool because you can see for miles and miles. But if you don't have a window seat you don't have to worry about looking out the window and being scared. And if you do havea window seat, you can just pull down the shade and it blocks the window.

When the plane lands at the airport, the flight attendents will generally tell you where to pick up your luggage saying like: "at section C4" or something like that. They have signs all around the airport that direct you to luggage pick up. Don't be affraid to ask an airport official for help if you need it. Also not panicing is crucial, just keep calm if you feel nervous.

just take a book or ipod or a laptop on the plane with you.

goodluck