Cheap Flights to Atlanta

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Atlanta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Atlanta, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.