Cheap Flights to St. Louis , MO from CA $212

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your St. Louis vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to St. Louis in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.