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Posted November 5, 2019
Getting through the airport might seem simple when you have friends or family by your side, but when it is time for your first flight alone at an airport in Jacksonville NC, you may need some direction. But after you do it once, you will find that you can easily do it again. Your travel opportunities are endless!
Once you have picked your destination, gather information about where you are going to get yourself mentally prepared. You should also check the routes being used by the airline to be aware of possible layovers. If you have an especially long layover, you may need to make accommodations. Plan ahead to give yourself peace of mind. Look at the weather for your destination as well; this will give you an idea of what type of clothing you need to pack.
If you are traveling internationally, you must assess the state of your passport and visa. Some countries require a passport that is valid for at least 7 months past your planned departure date. If yours is close to its expiration, re-apply just to be safe. Passport and visa validity varies from country to country, so be sure to check this out beforehand.
Your travel itinerary and papers should always be backed up. Have digital and physical backups just in case one gets deleted, goes missing, or you forget your printed copy at home. The same thing goes for tickets; always have a printed copy and a digital copy. Make copies of your passport and driver’s license too, just in case your wallet goes missing.
Always look at your airline’s baggage requirements to check the maximum weight limit. Clearly label your luggage with a bright luggage tag or marking that identifies it as yours. Also put your name, itinerary and a local phone number in your bag in the event the tag falls off. Keep keys, meds, emergency toiletries and underwear in your carry-on bag just in case.
Banks tend to freeze accounts if they notice unusual activity on your card. Make sure to let them know that you will be using it abroad so you will not have to deal with the issue later. Also, make sure that your card is chipped. Chipped cards are usually accepted with payment systems all over the world.
Always check the immigration requirements of the country you will be traveling to. There are usually some forms you will need to fill out in order to get through immigration and customs. Every country has its own clearance procedures, so follow the rules.
Most airlines offer a service for an additional fee that will help make sure unaccompanied minors safely make any connections are reunited with the responsible adult at the destination. The airline chaperone may take the child to a special room with snacks and games at hubs for longer layovers. If your child is older and a little more of a seasoned traveler, they may not need this service, but in some cases, it may be required.
Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) wants you to enjoy the journey and fly stress-free. Located near Jacksonville and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Richlands, NC, OAJ provides multiple flight options for travelers from Jacksonville, Morehead City, Hampstead and beyond. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines fly to and from Jacksonville’s airport bound for Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. By starting your journey at OAJ, airport in Jacksonville NC, you can get almost anywhere in the world from Aruba to Zurich with a simple connection at one of these world-class hubs.