Cheap Flights to Barcelona

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Barcelona escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, 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 by dressing in layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Barcelona, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.