Flights to West Springfield, Springfield from

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your time in West Springfield. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to West Springfield a pleasure. Here are some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.