Cheap Flights to Columbia , SD from CA $433

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Columbia could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• 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 simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Columbia easy and painless. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your travel documents and passport close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.