Flights to Winthrop, Maine from

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of handy hints that will help get your Winthrop vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change 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 guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Winthrop, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.