Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Santa Cruz. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Santa Cruz, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.