Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organized. Follow these handy hints that will get your Van Zylsrus escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and don't forget to bring a cardigan as it can get quite cool inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also recommended.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to minimize your risk. Don a pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and get your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

The trick is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Van Zylsrus in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.