Cheap Flights to Des Moines

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your holiday in Des Moines.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no fashion runway. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and bring a sweater as it tends to get cool in the cabin. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a wise idea.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks can also help.

It's easy --- be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Des Moines, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.