Cheap Flights to Houston , AL from CA $273

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Houston vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Houston a breeze. Below you'll find some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• 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 on board and will be confiscated.