Cheap Flights to Melbourne

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Melbourne. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

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 gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Melbourne in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID 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, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.