Cheap Flights to Havana

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Havana could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. We've put together some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Havana in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.