Flights to Alton, Virginia from

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Alton vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Alton, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.