Cheap Flights to Santiago from CA $195

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santiago could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Below are some tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Santiago a piece of cake. Below you'll find some handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.