Cheap Flights to Sao Paulo from CA $331

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Sao Paulo could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sao Paulo in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.