Flights to Howard, Pennsylvania from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Howard. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Howard easy and painless. Check out our top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.