Flights to Rochester, Washington from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a stress-free start to your vacation in Rochester. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged 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.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Rochester a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.