Domestic vs International Flights: What Are the Differences?

There are several differences when traveling on domestic flights vs international flights that you need to be aware of before booking. From travel documentation and visas to baggage allowance and customs, read on to find out everything you need to know.

If you’ve only flown domestic before and are about to take an international flight, you’ll notice some key differences between the two journey types.

From required documentation and immigration checks to on-board amenities and baggage allowances – this guide will cover everything you need to know to prepare for domestic vs international flights.

Understanding domestic flights vs international flights

First up, what do we mean by ‘international vs domestic’ flights and what are the major differences in domestic vs international travel?

What is a domestic flight?

Domestic flights transport passengers within the same nation. Also known as internal flights, you’ll land in the same country you took off from. Examples of domestic flights in the US including Denver to Las Vegas and Honolulu to Kahului.

What is an international flight?

On an international flight, you’re leaving the country. If you’re departing the US and flying to any other country in the world, you’re on an international flight. Examples of popular international flights from the US include San Francisco to London and New York to Paris.

Key differences between domestic and international flights

There are lots of differences between a domestic flight vs an international one. Domestic flights tend to be shorter than international ones (although when it comes to large countries like the US this is not always the case).

Other differences you’ll notice between domestic and international flights include:

• Booking and ticketing differences
• Baggage and carry-on policies
• Security and customs procedures
• The in-flight experience and amenities
• Travel documents and requirements

Booking and ticketing differences

If you’ve only flown domestic before, you’ll notice some differences when it comes to booking your international flights.

Ticket prices and fare structures

International flights are generally more expensive than domestic flights overall. However, flight prices are not based on distance alone, with more taxes and fees added onto international journeys. So a 12-hour international flight will not cost 12 times more than a one-hour domestic flight.

Both international and domestic flights generally offer basic economy and economy plus fare structures, but the quality of the higher classes is significantly different. Many US airlines offer first and business class for domestic flights.

Fly first class on an international flight and you’ll enjoy amenities like fully enclosed suites with a private bed, an onboard shower and a first class bar and lounge. On domestic flights, first and business typically means a wider, reclining seat, a meal and drink and priority boarding included in the fare.

Booking process and requirements

The booking process is very similar for international and domestic flights. The main difference at this point is the documents required.

For international flights, you’ll need a passport and will be asked to enter your passport details either during the booking process or at online check-in. You’re able to fly domestically in the US with a passport too, but if you don’t have one you can also use a valid government-issued photo ID. This could be your REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state ID or permanent resident card. Remember – the name on your boarding card must exactly match the name on your passport or ID.

Travel insurance considerations

Consider investing in travel insurance for both domestic and international trips. However, the specifics of your policy will vary depending on your destination. For example, when traveling in the US, you may want to invest in a policy that covers lost or damaged luggage, stolen personal belongings, trip cancellations and delayed flights. When traveling abroad, you’ll need more comprehensive cover that takes into account medical emergencies and repatriation and missed or delayed connecting flights too.

Baggage and carry-on policies

While every airline has different checked baggage and carry-on policies, there are some general differences in luggage allowance when you’re flying domestic vs international.

Domestic carry-on size vs international carry-on size

The exact size and weight restrictions for cabin bags varies from airline to airline. However, you’ll usually be allowed a slightly bigger domestic carry on vs international cabin bags, which are typically a bit smaller.

Baggage allowance and fees

Your baggage allowance and fees depend on the airline you’re flying with. However, when you’re flying internationally, many airlines allow you to check one bag for free. If you want to add on more hold luggage, there are steep fees. On domestic flights, you’ll normally have to pay for every item of luggage you want to check.

Security and customs procedures

There are a number of differences in security and customs procedures depending on whether you’re taking an internal flight or heading abroad.

Security checks for domestic vs international flights

Both domestic and international passengers will need to clear security, but you’ll undergo more intensive security checks when flying abroad than internally.

Customs and immigration for international flights

If you’re flying domestically, you’ll not need to clear customs and immigration after landing. However, after an international flight touches down, you’ll need to navigate through these checkpoints before leaving the airport.

This means having your passport ready to show to border officers, alongside any visa details. Visa requirements vary from country to country, so it’s important to check before your trip. When traveling internationally, customs officers may also inspect your luggage or cargo for prohibited items and collect taxes and duties on imported foods.

What to expect during security screening

You’ll go through a security screening before departure and—at some airports—before a connecting flight too. It's the job of security officers to ensure that you’re not flying with any prohibited items in your cabin bag or on your person.

Before reaching the front of the security queue, remove any large electronics such as laptops or hair straighteners from your cabin bag, as well as any liquids, which should be in a quart-sized transparent plastic bag. Take off your coat or jacket and any belts or hats.

Once you reach the front of the line, place your cabin bag in one of the trays provided, alongside the other belongings listed above. Take care to ensure none of your belongings overlap so the X-ray machine can get a clear picture.

After placing your trays on the security belt, you’ll be directed through a metal detector or scanner by security officers. If there are any issues, you’ll be taken to the side for a more thorough inspection. Then, pick up your bag from the other end of the security belt. If the system has flagged your bag, a security officer will perform a search before removing the offending item and passing it through the belt again.

In-flight experience and amenities

It’s safe to say the in-flight experience on planes designed for long-haul international travel is generally better than on domestic planes. Here’s what to expect:

Entertainment options

While entertainment options vary from plane to plane, the best entertainment systems are usually on the biggest aircrafts. Planes that fly long-haul international routes have seatback screens packed with movies, TV shows, music and games. While some smaller airlines offer entertainment apps you can log into from your phone, on short-haul flights you often have to make your own fun.

Food and drink

On long-haul international flights, meals and (most) drinks are included on the price of your ticket, whereas on some domestic flights, no meals are served at all. However, you can buy drinks and snacks on every plane – although prices are typically pretty high.

Travel documents and requirements

This is a very important difference. The travel documents you need for international flights are different to those required to board a domestic plane. Make sure you bring the right documents with you for a smooth journey.

Identification needed for domestic flights

US citizens don’t need passports for domestic flights in the US – they can travel with a valid US government-issued photo ID.

This includes:

• A US passport
• A permanent resident card
• A border crossing card
• DHS trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry or NEXUS

Check before traveling that your ID is accepted for domestic flights.

Passport and visa requirements for international flights

If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need a passport. Before traveling, check that your passport meets the requirements of the country you’re visiting. For example, to enter some countries you’ll need at least six months left on your passport before it expires.

In some cases, you’ll also need a visa. Many countries allow visa-free entry for US citizens. However, there is a limit on how many days you’re permitted to stay in a foreign country, so make sure you’re aware of any restrictions before booking your flight.

Other countries offer a visa on arrival. This means that after landing, you’ll need to fill in a form and present it to the customs official. Sometimes you’ll need to bring passport photos with you to get your visa on arrival – US citizens need to procure visas ahead of time to enter a number of countries. Often the visa application can be filled out online also known as an eVisa. To find out about the visa requirements of your destination, visit the US Department of State website.

Additional documentation for international travel

If you’re traveling internationally and planning to pack certain medications, you’ll need to bring a doctor’s note or prescription. If you’re traveling for private medical treatment, you may also need to bring a letter from your physician.

Traveling abroad with children? Remember – they’ll need a passport too. Pets need documentation as well, such as a health certificate. Check with your destination country to find out their requirements for animals. Wherever you’re traveling, you should also bring proof of travel and medical insurance. A second form of ID is useful too.

Tips for a smooth travel experience

Here are ten tips to help ensure a smooth, hassle-free air travel experience:

1. Check-in online: save time by checking in online 24 hours before your flight and downloading your boarding pass.
2. Dress for comfort: wear loose, comfortable clothing and layer up to remain comfortable and warm (but not too warm) during a day of air travel.
3. Get to the airport early: arrive no later than two hours ahead of departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights to ensure you’re not rushing through the airport.
4. Use your airline’s mobile app: this will display gate details, boarding times and any delays and cancellations in real time, ensuring you don’t miss any vital information.
5. Pack dry snacks and a reusable water bottle: fill the water bottle up after security and this will save you paying for expensive food and drinks in the airport or on the plane.
6. Pack liquids ahead of time: packing your liquids into a clear 20x20 centimeter plastic bag before you set off makes the security line much less stressful.
7. Charge your devices: ensure all your devices are fully charged and pack your chargers in your cabin bag, along with any necessary adaptors.
8. Pack your cabin bag with comfort in mind: a sleep mask, headphones, ear plugs and neck pillow go a long way to helping you enjoy a relaxing flight.

Strategies for reducing jet lag

Jet lag is a temporary sleep issue that happens when you cross several time zones. This will leave you tired during the day and unable to sleep at night.

There are some things you can do to lessen the impact of jet lag, such as gradually shifting your schedule a few days before your trip. Slowly adjust your eating and sleeping times to align more closely with those of your destination, so it won’t be such a big shock when you arrive.

Once on the plane, plan your sleep schedule carefully. If you’re flying when it’s night time at your destination, try to nap. If it’s daytime, attempt to stay awake instead.

Natural light helps to reset your internal clock. Get some light exercise for an energy boost too. What’s more, if you land during the day and need a nap, keep it short and avoid sleeping too late in the day.