Flights to Springfield, Missouri from

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your getaway in Springfield. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being organized before your flight can make your getaway to Springfield a breeze. Below are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.