Cheap Flights to Helen

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Helen escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• 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 simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Helen, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.