Cheap Flights to Houston

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our insider tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and exploring Houston in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Houston, here you come:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.