Cheap Flights to Dauphin Island , AL from CA $273

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and having a blast in Dauphin Island in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Dauphin Island in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.