Cheap Flights to Brest from CA $144

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of handy hints that will help get your Brest escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Brest in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.