Cheap Flights to Roma from CA $279

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be breezing through airport security and having a blast in Roma before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Roma in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID close by. 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 that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite 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 zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.