07 Feb International Travel Guide: Getting through the airport

A step-by-step travel guide for minors traveling alone and first-time travelers

Are you a first-time traveler, new to the whole airport thing, traveling alone as a minor, it’s your first time abroad, or all of the above? No worries! Traveling internationally can seem scary at first but it’s really not that big of a deal! (Okay, it IS a big deal because it’s awesome, but the process is not a big deal because it’s not difficult). Knowing what to do in the airport will give you the confidence and peace of mind to travel internationally like a pro! That’s why we’ve broken down the entire process of going through international airports into easy steps!

How to get through the airport?

• Step 1: Make sure you have your passport and any other documentation needed. Normally, it is required that your passport have at least 6 months validity beyond the day of departure from Spain to be allowed entry. Do not forget to check the validity of your passport!
• Step 2: Book your flight online (once you know your travel dates!)
• Step 3: Pack and make sure you have adequately-sized luggage. Learn how to pack for your study abroad aventure here!
• Step 4: Check in for your flight (online or once you arrive to the airport)
• Step 5: Get to the airport early! (2-3 hours before departure time)
• Step 6: Drop off any checked luggage at the check-in counter
• Step 7: Say farewell to your loved ones!
• Step 8: Go through security (you can look online for what’s allowed and what isn’t)
• Step 9: Get to your gate (found on your boarding pass and airport screens)
• Step 10: Board the plane and enjoy your flight!
• Step 11: Make your connection (if you have one)/Customs and Border Patrol
• Step 12: Arrive to your destination! You made it!

Now that doesn’t seem so bad, does it?

Asking for help at the airport

The cool thing about airports and traveling is that it involves a lot of people (of all ages) being in an unfamiliar location or going to places they’ve never been before! That means that there are signs, screens, help desks, airport agents, security guards, etc. throughout every single part of any international airport (in various languages) so that you can easily get the information you need for successful traveling!

If at any time you are ever unsure of what to do next or where to go, find an airport employee or help desk and they will guide you. Also make sure to look at your boarding pass and ticket for useful information such as what airline you are flying, flight number, and departure time. Pay attention to any signs throughout the airport and watch the screens which are constantly displaying the information of all flights.

Airport pick-up

If you are studying abroad with Centro MundoLengua, we will most likely be picking you up from the airport. Make sure to confirm any travel plans or pickup information with us before you leave. During your travels, keep the Centro MundoLengua phone numbers and any additional contact information we send you prior to your trip with you at all times. We are available 24 hours a day should your flight be delayed or if you need to contact us urgently.

For more questions and doubts regarding your study abroad program in Spain, visit our FAQ section See you soon!