Cheap Flights to Pemba from CA $1,413

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your time in Pemba. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

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

• Have your ID and boarding pass at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item 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.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.