Cheap Flights to Lowell , ME from CA $179

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Lowell. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy 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 spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Lowell a pleasure. Check out our top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage 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 earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.