What to know when flying internationally for the first time?

There are certain aspects that you need to be well informed of if you are flying internationally for the first time, which is:

• Extensive research on the destination visited: If you research the place you visit well, the travel experience can be seamless. Make sure to give a thorough analysis of the place being visited, including the food, culture, rules, and regulations. 
• Well-prepared with travel documents: The necessary travel documents, including a passport and visa, need to be kept handy to get through security easily.
• Comparison of the accommodation and transport facilities: Compare the transport and accommodation facilities available to find the best possible prices that are well within the budget. 
• Advance booking wherever possible: Always make an advance booking for the entire trip, as it helps you to customize and plan your itinerary in a well-defined manner. 
• Planned packing for the trip: Ensure you pack smartly for the trip and keep a list of all the essential items and necessities for the international trip. Using packing cubes is a wise way to pack effectively and make sure to keep all the valuables safe. 
• Look through options for active connectivity: Check for alternative network connectivity options available at the destination of your visit. If needed, buy the local SIM for ease of connectivity to the network. Apps can also be downloaded to help you communicate. 

What documentation is required for international travel?

A set of travel documents is required for travel internationally. Hence, the following documents are required for international travel, which are:

• Passport authenticating your ID and nationality. 
• Visa of approval that gives you the official hold to enter the country and stay in for a specific time period. 
• National ID card corroborating with the passport issued to you. 
• Necessary health and vaccination certification and other documents per the country of arrival requirement. 
• All the information of the itinerary for travel, including flight details, hotels, and other reservations made. 
• Proof of medical and travel insurance that has been issued to you for critical situations. 

How early should I arrive at the airport for an international flight?

The arrival time at the airport varies slightly for different international flights, depending on the destination you have chosen and the security check-in process you must follow. Usually, it is advisable to reach the airport 3 to 4 hours before the scheduled departure for the flight so that you avoid the rush and can swiftly complete all the check-in formalities. This would even give you ample time to complete all the necessary airport processes, including luggage clearance, customs verification, and approval to fly, which would help you board the flight on time. 

What items are prohibited or restricted in international travel?

While traveling abroad to your favorite destination can indeed be a memorable experience, certain items are prohibited or restricted during international travel. The listicle for the same is as follows:

• Alcohol: When stored in its original package, alcohol can be taken with you on international flights. However, it should be between 24% and 70% alcohol by volume, and the container should not exceed 5l. 
• Aerosols: Aerosol sprays are allowed to be taken if they serve the purpose of medicinal or toiletry usage. 
• Flammable items and explosives: Flammable liquids, solids, and explosives are not allowed in carry-on and check-in baggage, and you can be denied boarding for the same. 
• Cigarettes: E-cigarettes are not permitted in check-in baggage and are only permitted for personal use in carry-on baggage. 
• Dry ice: Airport security allows 2.5 kg per person of dry ice to be carried in carry-on or checked-in baggage, well within the permission granted. Read more about How much carry-on luggage is allowed on Philippine Airlines?
• Medications: Single travelers cannot take more than 50 dosage units of medication when flying internationally. All the medication carried will be thoroughly checked at the airport. 
• Blunt instruments and objects: Knives, hammers, crowbars, and other instruments that pose serious threats and can inflict injury are prohibited from being taken along on international flights. 

How can I stay connected to communication and internet services while abroad?

The best way to stay connected to communication and internet services while abroad is to buy a local SIM of the destination you are visiting. If you don't wish to do the same, it is best to use Wi-Fi networks whenever possible, use offline maps and other services, and check for additional roaming options in your network package.