Cheap Flights to Santiago de Quito

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Santiago de Quito. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport can make your trip to Santiago de Quito easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne or perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.