Cheap Flights to Columbus , MT from CA $207

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Columbus could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips 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 pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Columbus, here you come:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.