Flights to Herrin, Illinois from

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Herrin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Herrin easy and painless. We've rounded up some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.