Flights to Madison, North Carolina from

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Madison could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Madison in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.