Flights to Boulder, Western Australia from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your getaway in Boulder.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There's lots you can do to minimize your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Boulder in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.