Cheap Flights to Cartagena from CA $78

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your time in Cartagena. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Cartagena, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.