Airports and flying

Airports can feel stressful because everything runs on rules and deadlines. Once you know the sequence, check in, bag drop, security, passport control, gate, you can move through calmly, even on your own.

Before you leave home

• Check your flight time and terminal on the airline's app or website on the day, and allow enough time. Airlines set check-in and bag-drop deadlines; missing them can mean missing the flight.
• Check your passport and any visa or authorisation. Keep them, your boarding pass and your phone in one easy-to-reach place.
• Check your baggage allowance, including the number and size of cabin bags, with your airline. GOV.UK says bag limits are set by airlines.
• Pack medicines, chargers, valuables and a change of clothes in your hand luggage.

Liquids and security

• At most airports, liquids in your hand luggage must be in containers of 100 ml or less. The rule applies to the container size, so a half-empty 200 ml bottle is still not allowed.
• Where airports ask for a bag, GOV.UK says to use one clear, resealable plastic bag per person, holding no more than 1 litre and about 20 cm by 20 cm, sealed (not tied).
• GOV.UK says some airports now allow containers of up to 2 litres and do not need a separate bag, but rules differ between airports. Check the rules for your departure airport, any transit airport and your return journey.
• GOV.UK lists exemptions for essential medicines, special dietary food and baby food or milk, but you may need to show them separately and proof may be asked for.
• Duty-free liquids are allowed if they stay sealed in the security bag with the receipt inside until your final destination, which matters if you change planes.
• Security staff can refuse anything they consider dangerous, even if it is normally allowed, so keep calm and polite if something is taken.

Travelling on your own as a young person

• Airlines have their own rules for young passengers. For example, Emirates says children aged 5 to 11 travelling alone receive its Unaccompanied Minor service, and children aged 12 to 15 can fly alone without it or have it for an extra fee.
• Check your airline's rules before booking, and whether any forms need to be signed by a parent or guardian.
• Some countries have their own rules for minors leaving or entering, such as consent letters. Check the official entry requirements for your destination.
• Keep your phone charged, tell family when you have checked in, landed and left the airport, and know how you will get from the airport to where you are staying.

At the gate and on board

• Note your gate and boarding time, and keep checking the screens because gates can change.
• Stay hydrated, move your legs on long flights and follow crew instructions.
• Keep your passport on you, not in the overhead bin, so you have it ready for arrival.
• If your bag does not arrive, report it at the airline desk before leaving the baggage hall and keep the reference number.