Things to Know When Traveling by Plane
Flying is an exciting experience for many, but without good preparation it can become stressful. Whether it is your first flight or you travel often, there are things every passenger should know before heading to Sarajevo International Airport. In this guide we have collected the most important information, from documents and baggage to getting to the airport and parking your car.
1. Check your documents in time
The first and most important step before any trip are valid documents. Check them at least a few weeks in advance:
- Passport: most countries require validity of at least 3 to 6 months after your return date
- Visa: check whether you need a visa for your destination
- ID card: for some countries in the region a valid ID card is enough
- Flight ticket and reservations: keep them both on your phone and printed
- Travel health insurance: recommended for every trip abroad
2. Check-in: online or at the airport
Most airlines allow online check-in 24 to 48 hours before the flight. You save time and can often choose a better seat. If you check in at the airport, counters usually open 2 to 3 hours before the flight and close 40 to 60 minutes before departure, do not leave it to the last minute.
3. Baggage rules
Every airline has its own rules, but these limits generally apply:
- Hand luggage: usually up to 8 kg and around 55x40x20 cm (often less with low-cost airlines)
- Checked baggage: most often 20 to 23 kg per suitcase
- Liquids in hand luggage: only in containers up to 100 ml, max 1 litre total, in a transparent bag
- Prohibited items: sharp objects, tools and flammable materials are not allowed in hand luggage
- Power bank: goes only in hand luggage, never in the checked suitcase
Tip: weigh your suitcase at home, excess baggage fees at the airport are much higher than those paid in advance.
4. How early should you arrive at the airport?
The general rule for arriving at the airport is:
- 2 hours early: for flights within Europe
- 3 hours early: for intercontinental flights
- In peak season (summer, holidays): add another 30 to 60 minutes for crowds
Sarajevo Airport can be extremely busy during the summer months, so it is better to arrive early and calmly have a coffee than to run to the gate.
5. Security control without stress
To pass security control as quickly as possible:
- Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance
- Take your laptop and tablet out of the bag
- Put liquids in a transparent bag on top of your luggage
- Remove your belt, watch and metal items before the scanner
- Dress practically, avoid shoes that are hard to take off
6. Where to leave your car while traveling?
This is a question many travelers leave for the last day, and it is exactly what can make the biggest difference in costs and peace of mind. The official airport parking is practical for short stays, but for multi-day trips the price rises quickly.
The best option for longer trips is private parking near Sarajevo Airport:
- Price from 9 KM per day (cheaper for longer periods)
- Only 350 meters from the terminal
- 24/7 video surveillance and fenced area
- Free shuttle to the terminal and back
- Booking in advance, no last-minute search for a spot
Book private parking near Sarajevo Airport in time, from 9 KM/day, 24/7 video surveillance and a free shuttle to the terminal.
7. Practical tips for the flight itself
- Hydration: drink enough water, cabin air is extremely dry
- Chewing gum: helps with ear pressure during take-off and landing
- Charger and adapter: keep them in your hand luggage
- Medication: always in hand luggage, with a prescription if needed
- Valuables: never check in money, documents or electronics
- Spare clothes: one set of clothes in hand luggage is useful in case your checked suitcase gets lost
8. What if your flight is delayed or cancelled?
Under European passenger rights rules (EC 261), in case of longer delays or cancellations you may be entitled to a meal, accommodation and even financial compensation, depending on the reason and length of the delay. Keep your boarding pass and all receipts, and contact the airline in time.
Conclusion
Good preparation is half the journey. Check your documents, follow the baggage rules, arrive at the airport on time and solve the parking question in advance. That way, only the most important thing remains, enjoying your trip.
If you are flying from Sarajevo Airport and need a safe place for your vehicle, book parking with ASP Private Parking, your car waits in a secure place and a free shuttle takes you directly to the terminal.
Author: Hodžić Iman · Published: