Cheap Flights to Mars from CA $179

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Mars escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mars in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.