Flights to Waukee, Iowa from

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Waukee. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you pack the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good book. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Waukee in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.