Cheap Flights to Amherst , MA from CA $166

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Amherst vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Amherst, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.