Cheap Flights to Gold Coast from CA $408

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these handy tips that will get your Gold Coast escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Gold Coast a breeze. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine comes 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 need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.