Flights to Ocala, Florida from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Ocala. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Ocala a piece of cake. We've rounded up some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.