Cheap Flights to Realville

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Realville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Realville in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.