Cheap Flights to Mastic Point from CA $179

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Mastic Point could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mastic Point in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.