Flights to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado from

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Mesa Verde National Park could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Mesa Verde National Park, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.