Cheap Flights to Panama

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Panama could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and pick flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Panama, here you come:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.