Flights to Charleston, Arkansas from

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Charleston. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your getaway to Charleston quick and painless. Here are some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, 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 laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.