If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Strathmere.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you pack the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural fibers and bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin. Go for a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your luggage.
• A condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks also helps reduce your risk.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Strathmere, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.