Cheap Flights to Locarno

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and having a ball in Locarno in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you pack the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Locarno easy and painless. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing 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 objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.