Cheap Flights to Anchorage , AK from CA $261

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and having a blast in Anchorage in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Anchorage in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product 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.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.