Cheap Flights to Melbourne from CA $97

We've all come across those lucky jet-setters who manage to pick up impossibly cheap fares every time they fly. Eager to know how to do it for your Melbourne vacation? Don't wait until the last possible moment to lock in your flight. Don't stop there, though. Do some research and check if there are multiple airports at your destination. Fares often differ depending on the airport you jet into. Be sure to compare fares across airlines too. And finally, remember that the early bird catches the worm. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to book your ticket as soon as you spot a bargain. The best deals never last long.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to Melbourne could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Melbourne quick and painless. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.