Cheap Flights to Austin

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and discovering Austin in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Austin in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on 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, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.