Flights to Virginia, Minnesota from

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Virginia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

The secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Virginia in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.