Cheap Flights to Bamako

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Follow these handy travel tips that will help get your Bamako escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and take a sweater as the temperature can drop in the cabin. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a good idea.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help reduce this risk.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Bamako, here you come:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3null4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.