Cheap Flights to Fort Myers , FL from CA $131

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Fort Myers. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you've got all the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Fort Myers quick and painless. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.