Cheap Flights to Nassau from CA $166

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Nassau. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Nassau, here you come:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.