Cheap Flights to Bulgaria

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our insider tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and having a blast in Bulgaria in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be well organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Bulgaria before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.