Flights to Durango, Iowa from

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Durango. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Durango in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.