No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will help get your La Brea escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and take a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a good idea.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There's plenty you can do to lower your risk. Wear compression socks, drink lots of water and keep your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

Being organized before your flight can make your trip to La Brea a piece of cake. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.