Before you fly

1. Every traveller checks their own name

   Names must match the passport exactly, in the same order. Most mistakes are made by the friend who booked for everyone, and fixing a name can cost more than a new ticket. Each person ticks their own name below.

   • I checked mine
   • Add traveller

2. Booked through a travel agent? Get the airline's own booking reference

   Some airlines won't let you check in online without it, and airport check-in can cost extra.

3. Check in online, on time

   Check your booking for when online check-in opens and closes; if the app fails, use the website.

4. Bags: buy online, measure, keep proof

   Check what the fare includes before you pack. On low-cost airlines a cabin bag usually costs extra, and much more at the gate.

5. Save your boarding pass outside the airline app

   Take a screenshot or save the PDF the moment check-in completes. Open the airline app once before you leave, don't log out, and make sure it runs on your phone before the trip.

6. Sitting together?

   Seats aren't guaranteed together unless you pay for them. Decide before check-in, and check in together if you're not paying.

7. Passport and entry permits: official sites only

   Check your passport is valid for the whole trip. Travelling to the UK? Most visitors without a UK or Irish passport need an ETA, from GOV.UK (opens in a new tab) only: fake ETA sites have cost travellers over €200 (Brussels Times (opens in a new tab)).

8. Know what to do if something happens

   Emergency numbers and steps for your destination: If something happens.

Airline rules come from a table we check by hand, with sources and dates; fees change, so check your booking too. Ticks stay in this browser only.