Cheap Flights to Melia from CA $49

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will get your Melia escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Melia before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.