When you're an airplane novice, getting from the airport parking lot to your seat on the plane can be an overwhelming process, though boarding can be stressful for air travel experts, as well. Once you get through security, you'll need to navigate yourself and your luggage through an airport swarming with people. Staying calm and focused makes the process easier and quicker. Before you know it, you'll be relaxing in your seat and dreaming of what's waiting for you at your destination.

Step 1

Find your gate. As soon as you walk through security, you should see overhead signs pointing the way to various gates. Look at your boarding pass to determine which one is yours, then follow the signs.

Step 2

Look at the information board displayed at your gate, which should show the flight number, scheduled departure time and the time the flight will begin boarding. Check to see if there are any flight delays; if you see a delay listed, speak to the gate agent for more information.

Step 3

Prepare your carry-on luggage. Most airlines will allow you to bring two pieces of luggage on board: a personal item like a purse or laptop bag, and a second item that can be placed in the plane's overhead bins. Condense your luggage into two bags if you have more than two pieces.

Step 4

Listen for announcements. Keep your MP3 player and turned off and stay off the phone while you're waiting to board so you don't miss something. Check your boarding pass to see your seat number, and look to see if there is a zone number listed on the pass.

Step 5

Collect all your luggage when you hear the gate agent announce it's time to board your zone or the section of rows that includes your seat. Hold your boarding pass out as you get in line to enter the hallway, or jetway, that leads to the plane. The agent might either scan your pass or simply look at it before you're allowed to walk down the hallway.

Step 6

Walk onto the plane and down the aisle. Look above the seats to check the row numbers. Once you arrive at your row, place your larger bag in the overhead compartment and your smaller bag under the seat in front of you. Sit down, strap on your seat belt and get comfortable for your ride.

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