Cheap Flights to Queen Charlotte from CA $295

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Queen Charlotte escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Queen Charlotte, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.