This is my first time flying alone, and my first time flying since 6 years ago, when I was a teenager. I will be travelling to Canada soon in the next few months to see my girlfriend. I don't have a fear of flying but I'm mildly paranoid about the airport process and something going wrong.

If I understand correctly, as I won't be bringing checked luggage, I can check in online and print my boarding pass and go straight to security and from there to departures, is that correct?

If you tell us the airport you're flying from and the airport(s) you'll be connecting and arriving at, flight numbers, etc. there will be many here who can tell you exactly where to go and what to expect, to the most minute of details that will satisfy you and out you at ease.

It will likely be Gatwick Airport to Toronto Pearson Airport with Air Transat, but their shocking level of customer service has spooked me a bit, so I could potentially dish out a tiny bit more and travel with British Airways from Heathrow, but I imagine the process is similar?

I can't comment regarding Covid-times out of LHR on BA or AC as I've flown out of there during normal times.
If you are going to fly BA the the BA forum would be best. If AC, likewise in the AC forum.
If you want to follow entry into Canada rules, the Destinations forum | Canada subforum is the best place to go.
If you want to follow general airport procedures to depart from a UK airport, then Destinations forum | UK & Ireland subforum is probably the best place to go.

Of course, you'll need to get all of your COVID papers/documentation/proofs sorted out and ready for entry into Canada... you got all that sorted already (aside from any negative covid test results that you might need shortly before your trip)?

Air Transat is not Air Canada.

If things go well, then traveling with Air Transat (IATA code TS) will be fine. If things go sideways, then you could be in a situation where you may not be rebooked to another flight for a few days (they only fly LGW-YYZ on Tu/Th/Sa/Su).

Flying with BA gives you many more possible options to fly if LHR-YYZ is severely delayed or cancelled. They will involve connections (and you'd have to make sure that you're allowed to transit through the connecting airport), but at least you'd be on your way.

I'm aware, but the OP is entertaining the possibility of flying an airline other than TS... so I just threw out some suggestions for BA and AC.

If you can afford the money to fly BA then fly BA. I've used TS from Gatwick and their seat and food is shocking. As others have said, if things go sideways, you could find yourself very stuck.

Apart from the covid rules, as you're flying to see your girlfriend, if she is Canadian, immigration may be tougher as they may see you as a risk for overstaying. If you have some sort of evidence that anchors you to the UK, it might do you well to have a copy with you.

I used to get mildly overwhelmed with the process when I was first flying but now it's like second nature. There are lots of safety nets and people around the help you if needed. Just plan ahead and leave plenty of time and you'll do fine.

Likely no need to print your boarding pass - if your airline is like most these days, your boarding pass will be on your phone.

I did my first travel alone trip to Canada too. Everyone along the way was super friendly and I managed just fine. I am sure you will be too!

Lots of airline staff and experienced fliers in YYZ. The terminals are well signed and laid out as well.

I'm sitting here now after not having flown for 22 months due to covid. Had no issues clearing the CBSA and customs, as well as changing terminals. A little rusty as you'd expect, but I'm back at home now.

You'll be fine. Canadians are helpful to a fault. Just ask anyone if you're having trouble here.

Do you have an impaired driving charge on your record, or another criminal charge however ? You won't be admitted to the country if you do. Also, as previously mentioned, a wrongly worded statement to the CBSA about visiting a girlfriend here will perhaps create denial of entry issues for you too.

Do you rent or have utilities where you could print out bill copies to act as that "anchor" to where you live. Even if you have a cell phone account in your name you could print that out and bring it. Bring your driver's license along with your passport. Answer all questions honestly, look them in the eyes but don't offer additional info they don't ask for.

Canadians are lovely people and very helpful to visitors, however they want to make sure you are coming back home, so also print out your airline information for your return flight. I know this sounds like a lot of old fashioned paper, but it is better to bring it and not need it, than be asked for more info about yourself and not have it. You can just put this stuff in a pocket in your backpack, as a just in case they ask questions. Definitely BA, it is worth the upcharge.

Airports are great places for having signs clearly letting you know where everything is. I love airports and I am always way early so I can walk around and look and people watch.

Have a wonderful time with your girlfriend on your trip to Canada!

Many YouTube videos. This is only one of them.


It's mainly check-in, security, boarding the aircraft at the gate. That's it.

If girlfriend lives in Canada and you in the UK, how did you meet? You might be asked this by immigration officers.