Cheap Flights to Council Bluffs from HK$1,402

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Council Bluffs.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and bring a pullover in case it gets cool in the cabin. Pick flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help reduce this risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Council Bluffs in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.