Flights to Valle Crucis, Banner Elk from

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Valle Crucis escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Valle Crucis, here you come:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.