Flights to Donovan, Illinois from

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will get your Donovan escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Donovan in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.