Tips for flying: complete guide

Complete guide to flying on an airplane

Whether it's your first flight or you simply want to improve your experience, these tips will help you travel with more peace of mind and comfort.

Before the flight

Documentation

• Domestic flights (Panama): ID card or passport
• International flights: valid passport (minimum 6 months), visa if applicable
• Minors: notarized authorization if traveling without both parents

Luggage

• Check the airline or aircraft's limits
• On private flights: generally 10–15 kg of checked luggage per person
• Keep essentials in a carry-on bag in case your luggage is delayed

Health

• Hydrate well before the flight
• Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before
• If you take medications, keep them in your carry-on

During the flight

• Ear pressure: chew gum or yawn during takeoff and landing
• Hydration: cabin air is dry — drink water regularly
• Movement: on long flights, stand up every hour to walk around
• Turbulence: keep your seatbelt fastened when seated

Private vs. commercial flights

| Aspect | Private | Commercial |

|--------|---------|-----------|

| Check-in | 15 min before | 2–3 h before |

| Luggage | Flexible | Strict |

| Schedule | You choose | Fixed |

| Layovers | None | Possible |

| Privacy | Total | Shared |

Popular destinations from Panama

With Sky Ride you can fly private to Contadora (20 min), San Blas (30 min), Bocas del Toro (1 h), and Costa Rica (1.5–2 h). Quote via WhatsApp.

Book your flight with Martín →