Flights to Helena, McRae-Helena from

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through airport security and having a ball in Helena before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Helena in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.