Flights to Stuart Island, British Columbia from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Stuart Island.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and bring a sweater just in case you get chilly. Opt for a pair of roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and heavy hiking boots in your main luggage.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers during long flights. The great news is there are ways to lower your risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, wander through the cabin as often as possible and wear compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Stuart Island in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.