Cheap Flights to Cape Town from CA $164

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Cape Town escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze 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 objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Cape Town, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Travelling with a new perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.