Cheap Flights to San Mateo

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your getaway in San Mateo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to San Mateo easy and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Travelling with 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 zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.