Cheap Flights to Hervey Bay from CA $1,537

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your vacation in Hervey Bay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hervey Bay in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favourite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.