If you’re traveling by air, you won’t have to think too long and hard about which airport to fly into. Newton has just one – Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM).

A flight to Newton means hitting the tarmac at Des Moines Intl. Airport. Disembark the plane, pick up your bags and you’ll be 56 kilometres from the downtown area.

Newton is serviced by 6 airlines from 25 airports across the globe.

United Airlines and American Airlines offer the majority of flights to Newton. One of the most popular ways to get there is on a United Airlines flight from Chicago.

With approximately 270 nonstop flights each week, you’ll be landing in Newton before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

The most popular flights to Newton depart from Denver, Chicago and Dallas airports.

If it’s Chicago you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 1 hour and 24 minutes before you arrive in Newton. Terminal to terminal from Denver takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes and from Atlanta, the flight time is 2 hours and 9 minutes.

If you’d like to have some extra spending money on your trip to Newton, listen up! As every experienced jet-setter knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Fares are usually more expensive close to the departure date. Another easy way to land an unbeatable deal is to research all options. If your destination has several airports, don’t forget to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Lastly, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book fast. If you spot a terrific bargain, don’t hesitate — snap it up while the opportunity’s there.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to Newton could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We’ve rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. First of all you’ll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won’t be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight can be as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. That way you’ll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Unfortunately, one risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your getaway to Newton a piece of cake. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They’ll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don’t worry, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Don’t forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can’t be taken on board. They’ll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.