Cheap Flights to Santa María from CA $180

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Santa María. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear closed-toe, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Marían in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.