If you’re arriving by air, you won’t have to ponder too long which airport to fly into. Natchitoches has just one – Alexandria Intl. Airport (AEX).

You have a couple of choices if you’re going to Natchitoches. Select from 4 airlines that service this city from 6 airports around the world.

The majority of flights to Natchitoches are offered by American Airlines. The most common route departs from Dallas, and American Airlines flies this route the most frequently.

With roughly 123 direct flights running every week, you’ll be touching down in Natchitoches before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Natchitoches departing from Dallas, Atlanta and Houston airports are the most in demand.

If it’s Dallas you’re departing, you’ll be airborne for around 1 hour and 7 minutes before you touchdown in Natchitoches. Terminal to terminal from Atlanta takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and from Houston, it’s 1 hour and 7 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Natchitoches until the very last minute. That’s one move savvy travelers use to get the best deals. Booking in advance means more options and cheaper flights. Another excellent way to nab the most affordable fare is to research all options. If where you’re headed has several airports, research the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, another simple way to save some money is be ready to book at a moment’s notice. If you spot a terrific bargain, don’t hesitate — grab it while you can.

We’ve rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you’ll be speeding through the airport and enjoying Natchitoches in no time at all.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that’ll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good book. It’s also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don’t forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight often lies in the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression tights or socks can also help.

The answer is simple — be organized. We’ve put together some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Natchitoches, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don’t worry, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume or cologne? As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-close bag, you’re permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.