Cheap Flights to The Nation

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your The Nation escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• 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 gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to The Nation in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.