June 7, 2026 – 10.02pm
Getting on board a plane can be the most exciting part to any holiday (unless it’s the return leg), and there are many things you can to do to improve the sometimes daunting journey.
Nine.com.au has gathered expert advice from the people who fly more than anyone else, to make sure you’re the most prepared flier on board.
Flying can be daunting. But it doesn't have to be. Adobe Stock
Firstly, you’ll want to sort out your luggage.
While it’s common, adding a ribbon to your bag isn’t always the best idea. That’s because it might screw up the scanning process.
And while colourful suitcases are on trend, experts warn they may attract thieves.
Of course, black suitcases usually flood the baggage carousel meaning it can be hard to find yours, so adding colourful belts or tags can help them stand out.
A soft bag with wheels is the best option according to a veteran pilot. That’s what you’ll find Captain Deborah Lawrie waiting for.
And if you don’t want your case to be tossed around, don’t add a fragile sticker, claimed one baggage handler. Sadly, they said it can mean some do the opposite of taking care of it.
Don’t add zip ties to it either because it may mean nobody can get into your case to save your stuff should the zipper break.
The hard shell vs soft shell suitcase debate continues. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Hard-shelled cases with four wheels have been declared  the best’ by some, but that’s still up for debate.
However, another caption questioned if you need checked luggage at all. Captain Chris Pohl said he always flies with only hand luggage.
When you go through security, don’t just drop your phone into one of the security bins.
They’re very attractive to thieves, said one expert, who advises putting them inside a bag instead of just leaving them out in the open.
Phones are often stolen from security bins. Getty
Once you’ve made it through, and you’re in the departure lounge, you don’t have to look at passengers heading to a lounge with envy.
You might not know that there are plenty of lounges you can pay to get into without flying business or first class.
They include the Plaza Premier Lounge at Sydney and the House by Aspire Lounge at Melbourne.
If you’ve been wondering what to wear on a plane, the hotly debated topic was settled by Fiji Airways pilot Captain Etika.
Ditch shorts and a singlet, it’s too cold, he said. Instead, Wear soft clothes and bring some kind of scarf or jumper.
It can be hard to be comfortable in economy class. iStock
When you finally arrive, if you’ve crossed time zones you may have to face the dreaded jet lag.
Self-proclaimed Jet Lag Guy, Dr Steve Jasper is a former pharmacist who has become an expert in the condition. 
Knowing if you’re a morning person or a night owl and adjusting your sleep patterns to match can help.
Getting outside in sunlight is also a must.
It has also been scientifically proven that noise-cancelling headphones can help in many ways when travelling, including with jet lag.
As for when you finally get to your accommodation, one hotel boss suggests traveller pack a “first-hour kit” in your carry-on.
“I always suggest packing what I call a ‘first hour kit’ in your carry-on. Swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, deodorant and a phone charger at a minimum,” Lachlan Walker, Regional General Manager, Fiji & Pacific IHG Hotels & Resorts told nine.com.au.
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