Cheap Flights to Merrillville , IN from CA $186

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these top travel tips that will get your Merrillville escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial 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 nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Merrillville, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.