Flights to Shannon, Illinois from

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Shannon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in 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:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Shannon in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.