Flights to Jay, Maine from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Jay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Jay, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? No 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 can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.