Cheap Flights to Kota Kinabalu from CA $37

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Kota Kinabalu vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Kota Kinabalu, here you come:

• Have your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.