Cheap Flights to Saint-Barthélemy

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Saint-Barthélemy. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Saint-Barthélemy, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.