Flights to Willemstad, Curaçao from

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your time in Willemstad. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing 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 Willemstad in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.