Flights to Johannesburg, California from

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Johannesburg could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Next, make room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Johannesburg a pleasure. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.