First Time Flying? A Simple Guide for Malaysian Travellers

Flying for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but that’s completely normal. Don’t worry — this guide is made especially for Malaysian travellers and will help you understand what to do at the airport and on the plane. With these simple tips, you’ll feel prepared and confident for your journey. You’ve got this!

First Time Flying? Here's What Foreign Travellers Should Know

Source: foxsanantonio.com

Flying for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but don’t worry — it’s easier than you might think. Whether you're flying from KLIA to Kota Kinabalu or taking your first international trip, this step-by-step guide will help you feel prepared and confident.

1. Arrive Early at the Airport

Plan to arrive at least 1 hour before a domestic flight, and 2 to 3 hours before an international flight. During peak travel periods such as school holidays, weekends, or festive seasons like Hari Raya, traffic to airports like KLIA, KLIA2, or Subang Airport can be heavy — so give yourself extra time.

Once you arrive, check the flight information displays to locate your airline’s check-in counter and your boarding gate.

2. Check In

✅ Online Check-In

Most airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Batik Air allow you to check in online 24 hours before your flight using your phone or computer.

Benefits of online check-in:

• Select your preferred seat
• Receive your digital boarding pass
• Avoid long queues at the airport

🧳 Check-In at the Counter

If you have large luggage or haven’t checked in online, proceed to your airline’s check-in counter. Present your passport (for international flights) or MyKad (for domestic flights) along with your booking reference. The airline staff will assist you with your boarding pass and baggage.

3. Check Your Luggage

If you’re travelling with large suitcases or bags, you will hand them over at the check-in counter.

📦 Most airlines allow 20–30 kg of checked baggage, depending on your ticket type — always check your baggage allowance in advance.

Items to keep in your carry-on bag:

• Passport or ID
• Phone, charger, and power bank
• Wallet, cash, and credit/debit cards
• Medications and personal essentials
• Travel documents or itinerary

💡 Tip: Keep your baggage receipt — you’ll need it to collect your bags at your destination.

4. Go Through Security Screening

At security, place the following items into trays for screening:

• Carry-on bag
• Phone, wallet, coins, watch
• Jackets, belts, or any metal items

🚫 Liquids are restricted to containers of 100ml or less, and must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag. This applies to items like water, shampoo, perfume, and lotions.

Follow the instructions given by security personnel, and you’ll be through in no time.

5. Immigration (For International Flights)

If you are flying overseas, you must go through immigration. Present your passport and boarding pass to the immigration officer.

You may be asked a few basic questions:

• "What is the purpose of your visit?"
• "How long will you be staying?"

Just answer clearly and honestly. Some airports will also take your photo and fingerprints.

⚠️ Important: Photography and video recording are not allowed in immigration areas.

6. Find Your Boarding Gate

Check your boarding gate either on your boarding pass or the airport’s information screens.

It’s recommended to be at your gate at least 30 to 45 minutes before your flight. Boarding usually happens in groups, so listen for announcements and queue up when your group is called. Show your boarding pass to the staff one last time before entering the plane.

Things to Check Before Boarding a Plane

Source: Forbes

Flying can be exciting, but before you get on the plane, there are a few important things you should check to ensure your journey goes smoothly.

1. Boarding Pass

Make sure you have your boarding pass ready. This can either be a printed paper ticket or a digital version on your phone. You will need to show this when boarding the plane.

2. Flight Number and Gate

Check the airport’s flight information boards to confirm your flight number and boarding gate. Be sure to double-check, as boarding gates can sometimes change without prior notice.

3. Boarding Time

Find out what time boarding starts. It’s a good idea to be at the boarding gate at least 30 minutes before your flight's departure time to avoid missing your flight.

4. Passport or ID

If you are taking a domestic flight within Malaysia, bring a valid government-issued ID such as your MyKad, driver’s licence, or any other accepted identification. For international flights, always have your passport with you and ensure it is valid for at least six months.

5. Carry-On Bag

Check your carry-on bag to make sure it meets your airline’s size and weight restrictions. Usually, the bag should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead storage compartment.

6. Liquids and Gadgets

Remember that any liquids such as water, lotion, or perfume must be in containers no larger than 100ml. These should be placed together in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Also, have your laptop, tablet, or mobile phone ready to be removed and scanned during the security check.

7. Personal Belongings

Keep important items such as your wallet, phone, keys, and travel documents in a small bag or pocket where they are easy to access.

8. Comfort Items

Bring items that will help you stay comfortable during your flight. These might include headphones, a light snack, a jacket or sweater, and something to read or watch like a book or your phone.

9. Health and Safety Items

Due to health and safety regulations, don’t forget to bring a face mask, hand sanitiser, and any necessary health documents such as vaccination certificates or travel declarations, if required for your destination.

10. Special Help

If you require special assistance — for example, if you need a wheelchair, are travelling with young children, or have other specific needs — inform the airline staff as early as possible so they can assist you accordingly.

What to Do After Boarding the Plane

Source: KAYAK

Flying for the first time? Once you’ve boarded the aircraft, there are a few simple steps you can follow to help you settle in and enjoy a smooth journey. Whether you're heading to Kuching, Penang, or somewhere abroad, this guide will help you feel more confident onboard.

1. Find Your Seat and Store Your Bags

Refer to your boarding pass to locate your seat number. Place your carry-on bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Make sure the aisle and emergency exits are clear of any bags or belongings for safety.

2. Sit Down and Fasten Your Seatbelt

Once seated, fasten your seatbelt. The cabin crew will demonstrate how to use it correctly. You must keep your seatbelt fastened while seated, especially during take-off, landing, and when the plane experiences turbulence.

3. Listen to the Safety Instructions

Pay attention to the safety demonstration by the flight attendants, even if you have flown before. They will explain how to use oxygen masks, life jackets, and where to find the emergency exits. It's important to know what to do in case of an emergency.

4. Switch Off Devices or Activate Airplane Mode

Ensure your mobile phone and electronic devices are either turned off or switched to airplane mode. Once the plane reaches cruising altitude, you can use your device for games, music, or reading — but mobile signals and calls must remain off throughout the flight.

5. Get Comfortable

Adjust your seat, use a neck pillow or small blanket if you brought one, and try to relax. If you feel nervous, take a few deep breaths to calm yourself. It’s completely normal to feel a bit anxious on your first flight.

6. Follow the Cabin Crew’s Instructions

The flight attendants are there to assist you. They will serve drinks, snacks, or meals depending on your airline and the flight duration. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need anything — Malaysian hospitality is often reflected in the service too.

7. Use the Restroom If Necessary

If you need to use the restroom, wait until the seatbelt sign is switched off, which means it’s safe to move around the cabin. Always be cautious while walking through the narrow aisles, especially during turbulence.

8. Enjoy the View and Stay Hydrated

If you have a window seat, take some time to enjoy the scenic views of clouds, mountains, or the coastline of Malaysia. Drink water regularly to stay hydrated, particularly on longer flights where cabin air can feel dry.

9. Prepare for Landing

Around 30 minutes before landing, the cabin crew will inform you to fasten your seatbelt and return your seat to the upright position. Make sure you have gathered all your personal belongings and stowed any items you may have taken out.

10. Be Patient When Disembarking

Once the aircraft lands, stay seated and wait for your turn to exit. Follow the instructions of the flight attendants and move calmly. There’s no need to rush — you're almost at your destination, whether it’s Kuala Terengganu or Tokyo!

What to Do After the Plane Arrives (International Flights)

Source: Malaysia Travel & Expatriation

Once your international flight lands, there are a few important steps to follow before you can officially enter your destination country. Here’s a simple and clear guide to help you navigate the arrival process with ease.

1. Wait for the Seatbelt Sign to Turn Off

After landing, remain seated and keep your seatbelt fastened until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign is turned off. Do not rush to stand up — safety always comes first.

2. Collect Your Personal Belongings

Before leaving your seat, check carefully to ensure you’ve taken all your belongings. Look in the seat pocket, under the seat, and in the overhead compartment. Make sure you have essential items like your passport, wallet, phone, and boarding pass (if required later).

3. Follow the Signs to Immigration

Once you exit the aircraft, follow the airport signs labelled “Immigration,” “Passport Control,” or “Arrivals.” These signs will guide you to the immigration checkpoint, where you will go through entry procedures.

4. Proceed Through Immigration

At immigration, the authorities will check if you are permitted to enter their country. Here’s what you need to do:

• Join the queue and wait patiently for your turn.
• When you reach the counter, hand over your passport and any required arrival or landing card (if the airline provided one during your flight).
• The immigration officer will inspect your documents and may ask you a few standard questions.

Examples of possible questions include:

• “Are you here for a holiday or business?”
• “How long will you be staying?”
• “Where will you be staying during your visit?”

Stay calm, answer politely and clearly, and be honest with your responses. These questions are a normal part of the process and help the officer understand the purpose of your visit.

5. Pick Up Your Checked Baggage

Once you’ve passed through immigration, head to the Baggage Claim area to collect your checked luggage. Look at the digital screens above the conveyor belts to find your flight number and corresponding carousel.

🛄 Match each bag with the baggage tag you received during check-in to ensure you’re collecting the right items.

6. Go Through Customs

After collecting your baggage, follow the signs to Customs.

Depending on the country you're entering, you may need to:

• Show your luggage to customs officers
• Declare certain items, such as food, alcohol, cigarettes, or large amounts of cash
• Fill out a customs declaration form, either during the flight or at the customs area

If you have nothing to declare, simply proceed through the “Nothing to Declare” lane. If you do have items to declare, go through the “Goods to Declare” lane and be honest about what you’re bringing in.

7. Exit the Airport

After completing customs, follow the signs that say “Exit” or “Transport.” From here, you can meet your family or friends, book a taxi, or take public transport to your next destination.

Remember to keep the following documents in a safe and accessible place:

• Passport
• Immigration stamp or entry slip
• Baggage claim tags

These may be required later, especially if there are any issues with your luggage or visa status.

How to Look Smart on Your First Flight

Source: The Star

Flying for the first time? Feeling a little nervous is completely normal — but with a few simple steps, you’ll look confident, prepared, and like a seasoned traveller. Here’s how to carry yourself smartly from the moment you step into the airport until you arrive at your destination.

1. Dress Neatly and Travel Light

Wear neat and comfortable clothes — a smart shirt or blouse with jeans or long pants works well. Bring along a light jacket or hoodie, as airplanes can get quite cold.
Avoid overpacking. Just bring what you truly need to keep your bag manageable and within the airline’s limits.

2. Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Keep all your important travel documents in one pouch or organiser. This includes your:

• Passport
• Boarding pass (printed or digital)
• Travel documents such as hotel bookings, return ticket, and visa (if required)

Having everything in one place makes it easy to access when needed — and you’ll look organised too.

3. Arrive Early and Know the Airport Process

For international flights, plan to arrive at least three hours early. This gives you enough time to complete each step without stress.

Know the general airport process:
Check-in → Immigration → Security Screening → Boarding Gate

Being familiar with these steps helps you move through the airport with confidence.

4. Stay Calm, Courteous, and Confident

If you’re unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask. Airport staff are used to assisting travellers — just ask politely and clearly.

Use phrases like:

• “Excuse me, may I ask…?”
• “Could you please help me with…?”

A smile and calm tone can go a long way.

5. Observe, Listen, and Follow Instructions

Pay attention to airport signs and listen for announcements. If you’re not sure where to go, observe what other passengers are doing and follow along confidently. Walk with purpose, keep your posture relaxed, and act like you’ve done this before — you’ll blend right in.

You Can Fly with Confidence

Source: CNA

Flying for the first time may feel intimidating, but it’s much easier than it seems. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can carry yourself with confidence and enjoy a smooth travel experience. Start by dressing neatly, keeping your travel documents (passport, boarding pass, flight and hotel details) in one organised pouch, and arriving at the airport early — ideally three hours before your international flight. This gives you enough time to go through key steps like check-in, immigration, and security screening without feeling rushed.

If you’re ever unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Airport staff are trained to assist and will be happy to guide you. Stay calm, pay attention to signboards and announcements, and observe how other travellers go through the process. Being polite and respectful goes a long way — not only will it help you get assistance more easily, it also leaves a good impression. Before long, you’ll feel comfortable and confident navigating the airport. Like many Malaysians who travel frequently, you’ll soon find that flying becomes second nature. Selamat jalan and have a pleasant journey! ✈