Flights to Madison, Virginia from

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Madison escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

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 screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Madison, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.