Cheap Flights to St. Martin , MD from CA $475

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your time in St. Martin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Look out St. Martin, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.