Cheap Flights to Texas

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy tips that will help get your Texas escape started on the right foot. 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 thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Texas before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.