Cheap Flights to Johannesburg from CA $774

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your time in Johannesburg. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organized before your flight will make your getaway to Johannesburg a breeze. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.