Even if you are flying within the European Union, if you cross country borders, you will still have to clear customs.
This is also a good time to get a basic grasp of the language your country speaks, although since English is a global lingua franca, it should not be too difficult to find a tour or an attraction with English speakers. If moving, you will want to get started on your new language well before moving day.
Also check currency limits. In the United States, for example, you must report to customs if you enter or leave the country with more than US$10000. And do not think about finding loopholes; the law most likely covers every edge case.
You will have a better time if you are travelling light. Some airlines even put a limit of 23 kilograms (51 lb) for checked bags; go over that limit and expect to pay additional fees. Still, your experience will be smoother if you only have carry-ons. Keep your passport with you as you will have to repeatedly undergo passport control several times.
Some countries (like Israel) also do an additional security interview; during this process, you will be asked a few questions ranging from public, general questions to private, personal questions. This is a probabilistic assessment done to determine the risk you pose to other passengers on your flight.
For the comfort of all passengers in the lounge, no audible announcements will play to inform you of your flight. It is your responsibility to check the information displays in the lounge and the concierge desk for updates to your flight status and departures.
The most common boarding method has first then business class board first, then subsequent groups in numerical or alphabetical order board one after the other. When your group is called, line up to prepare to board. Some airlines like Southwest allocate both a group and a position in the queue. The higher the boarding number, the closer you need to be to the front of the line. Other airlines do not use boarding groups and just have people board in whatever order they show up in. The gate closes several minutes prior to departure. If you are hearing “final boarding call”, you need to hurry onto the airplane to keep your seat.
Make your breakfast choices at the beginning of your flight before takeoff. You will need to do so so that everyone can get it. Breakfast is not free and will probably not be grand unless in first class.
You may also want to bring a book with you in case your computer dies, although it is rare to be on an international flight with no charging power.
Avoid staying up your entire flight as you will feel tired and groggy when you land at your destination. It is best to get some rest while in the air to avoid crashing at the last minute.
The light outside can be too bright for both you and other passengers, so respect the bed time and do not use the windows as a source of light. Instead, use the more directional reading lamps if you need a light source.
Some countries may allow you to obtain a visa right before passport control, although it may be more expensive and is not a guarantee that you will be allowed to enter. Other countries have digital visas that you can print at home and staple into your passport. If you have a connecting international flight, you will most likely not have to go through passport control; instead, head to the check-in desk for your connecting flight or follow the signs up to the departures floor. Note, however, that CCTV and security/customs agents may monitor your movements, and if you leave the sterile area without clearing customs and immigration, you will be detained.
