Cheap Flights to Beijing from CA $186

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Beijing could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Beijing, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.