Cheap Flights to Barajas from CA $487

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Barajas could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, 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 are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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.

Being organized before you get to the airport will make your trip to Barajas quick and painless. Read through our useful tips for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.