Flights to Columbia, Alabama from

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and discovering Columbia in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. 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 your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Columbia, here you come:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.