Cheap Flights to Sheikh Zayed City from CA $548

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Sheikh Zayed City could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sheikh Zayed City in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.