Flights to Thomaston, Alabama from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Thomaston. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze 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. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Thomaston in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.