Cheap Flights to Ames

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Ames could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favourite shows are some great options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ames before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your travel documents and passport at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.