Cheap Flights to Amsterdam

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your holiday in Amsterdam. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Amsterdam, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.