Cheap Flights to Nome

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your holiday in Nome. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Nome in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.