Cheap Flights to Amsterdam

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Amsterdam could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Amsterdam quick and painless. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.