Cheap Flights to Kalamazoo , MI from CA $261

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Kalamazoo could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, enclosed 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.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kalamazoo in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take 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-lock 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 other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.