Cheap Flights to Skippers

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will get your Skippers holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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 secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Skippers in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.