Cheap Flights to New Providence , NJ from CA $196

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to New Providence could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack 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, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to New Providence before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.