Flights to Stockton, Illinois from

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Stockton vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, 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:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Stockton a piece of cake. Read through our useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.