Flights to Elm City, North Carolina from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Elm City. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop 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 restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Elm City, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.