First time flyers

Think of these as your larger suitcases or bulky backpacks that are too big or heavy to bring into the plane cabin with you. Instead, you’ll need to check them in before your flight. The best tip? Check your airline’s website for their specific weight limits and baggage rules, as every airline and travel class can be different. To avoid surprises (and extra fees), weigh your bags at home using your bathroom scales before you head to the airport. Once checked in, your bags will be tagged and safely stored in the plane’s hold, ready for you to collect at your destination.

Arriving at East Midlands Airport is simple and stress-free. If you’re driving, you’ll find plenty of parking options from budget-friendly carparks to convenient spaces right by the terminal. Prefer not to drive? You can ask someone to drop you off, grab a taxi, or hop on a bus. If you’re travelling by train, there are four nearby stations, so just pick the one that suits your route best.

If you’re flying very early in the morning, consider staying at one of the nearby airport hotels. Many are just minutes from the terminal and offer great park-and-stay deals, making your journey even smoother.

At East Midlands Airport, your safety is our top priority. To keep everyone secure, there are clear rules about what you can and can’t bring in your hand baggage. Don’t worry, essentials like medicine and toiletries are allowed, but it’s important to know the limits and how to pack them properly. Taking a few minutes to prepare your bags will make the security check quicker and smoother for you and other passengers. Click here to find out more about going through security.

You might also go through a body scan during security. These scanners are designed with your comfort in mind. You stay fully clothed, and the process only takes a few seconds. Plus, they’re completely safe and don’t use X-rays, so there’s no need to be concerned.

As you’re relaxing in the departure lounge, keep an eye on the screens, as they’ll display your gate number well in advance of boarding. Just follow the signs to your gate, but remember, some gates can be further away from the lounge, so it’s a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to get there without having to rush.

Once you reach your gate, you’ll find a seating area where you can relax while waiting for boarding to begin. Keep your seat number handy because boarding usually happens by seat or row number, to make the process smooth and organised. When it’s your turn, you’ll need to show your passport and boarding pass to the airline staff. This can be either a printed copy or the digital version on your phone. After that, you’ll walk through the gate and step onto the plane. The friendly cabin crew will greet you and help you find your seat, setting you up for a comfortable and enjoyable flight.

Touching down at your destination airport is the start of your adventure. Once you step off the plane with your hand baggage, the next step is a straightforward process. First, you’ll head to immigration, where you’ll show your passport to the officials for a routine check. Next is baggage reclaim. Screens above the carousels will display your flight number and direct you to the right spot to collect your checked-in luggage. Once you’ve gathered all your bags, it’s time to head through customs. After that, you’re free to step into the arrivals hall, ready to enjoy your onward journey.