Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz

Don't leave booking your flight to Santa Cruz until the very last minute. That's one trick frequent jet-setters use to get the best deals. Booking ahead means more options and more affordable flights. Also, do some online research and compare your options. If your destination has multiple airports, you may be able to score a great deal by flying into a smaller terminal. And finally, don't forget that the early bird catches the worm. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to buy your ticket as soon as you spot an unbeatable bargain. The best deals don't last long.

If you're not prepared, travelling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your getaway in Santa Cruz. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are good options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well organised before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Cruz in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.