Flights to Big Island, Virginia from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your vacation in Big Island. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Big Island, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style 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, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.