Flights to Helena, Big Bar from

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Helena could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Helena before you know it. Follow these helpful 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 travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.