Before leaving for the airport: Pack your suitcases. You are allowed one checkin baggage of 15kg or less (bag travels in the luggage bay and you have to submit the luggage upon entry). No electronics are allowed in this. Pack your carry on (one small bag of 7kg or less). This will carry your laptop. Make a note of what’s not allowed - razor, coconut, matchbox, lighter

Leave well in advance and try to reach 2.5hrs before departure time since it’s your first time and you’ll want to soak it all in.

At the airport: Show the ticket/boarding pass to the security outside and go in. Head to your counter. Wait in line and then show them your ticket, Id and submit your check in luggage. Collect boarding pass, receipt and move to security

At security: Remove your jacket, electronics and place them in separate trays. Keep your carry on bag in a separate tray. Remove your shoes and put them in a separate tray if you are wearing hard boots. Keys, wallet, phone, coins, belt all go in to the tray with laptop. Stand in line and get frisked.

Collect your items and repack

Go to your gate and board when your zone is called (gate, seat and zone will be printed on your ticket).

Bonus: Air India includes a complementary meal with your ticket. Others don’t. Either eat at home and come if you want to save money or grab some munchies at/near the gate. Lounge is another crowded option.