Flights to Williams, Iowa from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Williams. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

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 sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Williams, here you come:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.