Cheap Flights to Columbia

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our top tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and discovering Columbia in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Columbia in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig 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 bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.