Flights to Hayward, La Grange from

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips that will help get your Hayward vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hayward in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? 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 bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.