Cheap Flights to Islay from CA $1,870

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Islay escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Islay easy and painless. Check out our useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.