Welcome aboard MMbee, and welcome to the nerve racking world of non-rev travel.
You have definitely landed in the right place


For a first trip
Familiarize yourself with your airline travel rules and policies
Be flexible - Tue/Wed and holidays are usually the best travel days and the first /early flights usually give you your best shot.
Plan meticulously and always have backups - a plan A, B, C
Don’t check a bag- carry-on only. It will give you the flexibility to make a last minute dash.
Dress for success- business casual.
Never leave the gate until pushback (because you never know).
Never argue with on-duty staff.
Expect a curve - delays, diversions, weather, all can throw your trip for a loop -
Have A “What If “ Plan - Remember your bags are packed, you’re already at the airport and it’s always sunny somewhere.
Expect the middle seat and expect to seat separately.
Put a copy of the non-rev prayer http://nonrev.net/open-discussion/17...vs-prayer.html in your carry-on and repeat it on your way to the airport.
And finally relax , it’ll be fun.
Enjoy, you’re going to have a great four months of travel.