Cheap Flights to Gold Coast

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Gold Coast could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Gold Coast in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.