Cheap Flights to Big Bend National Park

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your time in Big Bend National Park. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Big Bend National Park a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.