Cheap Flights to Cambridge , MA from CA $207

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your time in Cambridge. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you take the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

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 gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've rounded up some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Cambridge, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.