Flights to Pickwick Dam, Counce from

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Pickwick Dam. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot 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.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pickwick Dam in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.