Cheap Flights to Rio from CA $114

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Rio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are good options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Rio a pleasure. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.