Cheap Flights to Madrid , NM from CA $224

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will get your Madrid vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Madrid a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Have your ID and travel documents within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.