Flights to West Point, New York from

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will help get your West Point vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out West Point, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.