Flights to Madrid, New York from

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Madrid could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Madrid, here you come:

• Have your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.