Cheap Flights to Merced , CA from CA $270

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Merced could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've put together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Merced, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.