Flights to Dorchester, Iowa from

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your getaway in Dorchester.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited 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. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• A condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights can also help.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Dorchester easy and painless. Read through our top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.