Cheap Flights to El Varadero

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organised. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your El Varadero holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• 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 gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to El Varadero in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.