I'm a first time flyer I will flying for the first time in July and I will be alone. I'm flying from Toronto to Australia. Anyone have any tips. I use to be terrified of flying when I was younger, the idea of getting on a plane scared the crap out of me but as I've gotten older I'm growing more fond of the idea but now that it's happening next month I'm getting really nervous. Any tips on ideas of how to calm my nerves, and how to handle layovers and any other advice you can think of giving a newbie like me

Thanks

Xanax + a window seat + bring your own pillow

I have window seat for all 3 flights I'm taking off from a small airport close to home then getting on a plane in Toronto landing in L.A and taking off from there to Australia. I'm bringing my own pillow and I don't trust Xanax as I have reactions in the past to certain pills like that so I'm brining melatonin

Well, long flights are always easier with little to no turbulence which you won't find out until you're in the plane obviously. But my last flight was Dubai to Washington 14 hours and the first 5-7 hours was turbulence non stop! Terrible! I think Cali to Australia is about 14 hours also.

I always bring my own pillow. Maybe it looks goofy sometimes, but if I find a nice spot against the window it works out great. Also check the seat map up until day of departure, try to get the seat with no middle passenger!

You'll be fine. Don't worry

Take a short round trip flight before your long haul.

pretty impressive that someone who's never flown before is on flyertalk! just enjoy the journey, op. have a safe flight!

Well I was googling tips for first time flyers and nervous flyers and this fourm came up so I thought I would post and see what advice u all have

Remember the pilots, in addition to being highly trained professionals, are people with friends and family too. They want to get to the destination as safely and smoothly as you do!

Bring a book and an iPad / laptop if you have one so you can have plenty of entertainment (the flight down to Australia should hopefully have IFE too) which will help keep your mind off of it.

You'll be fine and it'll be well worth the flight to see what is on the other end!

You don't get to panic unless you see the flight attendants panicking.

They've flown many more hours and would know the difference between routine but uncomfotable turbulence and anything that was truly out of the ordinary, of which there's maybe a 0.00001% chance of that happening.

If in coach I like to sit by the wing, because any strange sounds or movements by the plane (i.e. Slight drop in altitude, speed changes) can be witnessed by flaps moving. So you know it's normal and simply the plane leveling off or beginning descent. Other than that if you don't like Xanax, take some melatonin and a glass of wine with dinner.... Sit back, relax, have a snooze, and enjoy your flight!

Welcome to FT!

Here's my two cents:

Lots of people like Xanax etc, but personally I'd say skip it if you are already feeling nervous - feeling groggy when you want to be alert won't help. YMMV though.

Familiarise yourself in advance with your transit airports. If you need to change terminals to make your connection, know where you'll need to go and how to do it so you feel confident when you get off the plane (especially if delays make things a little tighter than you'd planned).

3-1-1 - if you are not familiar with the rules, take a look at them and make sure any liquids you take through security comply with the restrictions. Big water bottles are a trap for first timers. If you want water, get it airside.

IPad +1 - load it up with movies and books you love and the time will fly. Noise cancelling/isolating earbuds or ear phones are also a must.

Neck pillow - can really help with comfort if in Y. Also pashmina/shawl - better than a scratchy blanket and can be used for additional neck or lumbar support if you need t.

Turbulence - not sure if is is a concern but if it is, I find it can help to imagine I am in a car driving along a gravel/unsealed road. Most turbulence basically feels like this to me. And the tips about watching the FAs is right. If they are not looking nervous, you don't need to be either.

Luggage - keep it simple - especially your carry-on. Don't be the person lugging three heavy bags on board - it's too hard to manage and keep track of, you'll inconvenience other passengers and you might be forced to gate check. Streamlining your luggage takes a lot of stress out of the equation.

Allow plenty of time for check-in and to get through security. Worrying you might miss the flight will just add to stress levels.

You'll find we're a friendly bunch here in Australia - have a wonderful trip!

On long haul flights I always like to have some hard candy (like lifesavers) with me. You can get terribly dry on the plane and sucking on a hard candy helps me. I also carry tissues and lip balm - all because of the dryness of the airplane air. Do drink plenty of water.

There are varying strengths of tranquilisers - you might consider a small dose to take the edge off things and escalate your dose if you're struggling to manage the stress. Also betablockers have been an option for me in the past. Talk to your Dr about best available options and stress management while travelling.

Personally, I like the aisle so I can access the toilet. I also like the idea of seeing what the FAs are up to, as said upthread, there is no need to panic unless you see them panic. Seriously.

Have lots of peaceful entertainment - I would suggest a slasher flick on an iPad won't do much for your stress levels.

Don't hesitate to ask questions of the FAs, the ground crew, check in desk, basically any airline personnel. They are used to helping nervous flyers.

Wear comfortable clothes, you will find the trip more stressful if you're uncomfortable. Bring whatever travel aids you might want to improve your comfort levels, I like noise cancelling earphones as the noise of the engines can be draining for me. I've never taken a pillow purely cos I can't be bothered to carry one but I can understand those who do.

Stay hydrated. Eat before your travel and/or on long layovers. The food on the ground will be better than that in the air.

Otherwise, just try to relax and enjoy yourself.

THIS. I used to be a very nervous flyer (basically refused to fly). Easing into it helped me a lot.

Since then I've traveled the world and am close to earning my private pilot license. I know your fear is probably emotional rather than logic based, or at least mine was, but know that your airliner can handle way more than anything that will be thrown at it in terms of turbulence.

Also the Ipad with your favorite movies / TV shows is a great idea, if nothing else because it's a long flight and you will get bored.

Two things used to scare me when flying: changes in sound and turbulence. So when the sounds change or you hit turbulence (which you will) remember that this is normal and nothing to be afraid of. One trick for dealing with nerves is to look around at your fellow passengers and the flight attendants. See how calm and unconcerned they are. It's your clue that there is no reason to worry.