Cheap Flights to Pointe-Noire from CA $1,351

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Pointe-Noire could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good book. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Pointe-Noire, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.