Cheap Flights to Emerald Isle , NC from CA $287

If you're not prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Emerald Isle. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule 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 objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Emerald Isle, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.