First International trip on standby is it worth it???

Hey everyone, I’m planning to go on my first International trip to Japan and it's going to be my first time on a plane as well.

My plan:

• Attempt standby from Vancouver, BC to Tokyo starting March 26th so next month. For context, I know March–April is peak season because of Sakura / cherry blossom season.
• The trip will be 12–14 days in total, and I’ll be staying with a friend in Tokyo, so accommodation isn’t an issue.
• Fairly flexible on the return time as well.
• Since this is my first time flying and first foreign trip, I want to have realistic expectations.

Here’s the thing: the person I’m flying with works for the airline (lower priority) and seems to think everything will be fine, but I want to hear from anyone who has done something similar - I don't think he's flown an International trip before where it's been peak travel season when a ton of people are going to be flying in to their destination.

Specifically:

• Has anyone been on standby during peak travel season and had to wait more than 3+ days before clearing?
• Is waiting 3 days common, or is it rare to be stuck that long?
• Any tips or insights on whether this is just a bad idea for a first-time traveller?

I’m willing to wait up to 3 days, but beyond that would be tough. I’d love to hear real-world experiences, so I can decide if this standby plan is reasonable or too risky.

Thanks in advance! :)

Author: 64Keppel