Cheap Flights to Young America

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Young America. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Young America, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.