Flights to Colchester, Illinois from

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be cruising through the airport and seeing the best of Colchester in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you pack the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Colchester in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.