Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz from CA $203

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy tips that will help get your Santa Cruz escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Santa Cruz, here you come:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.