Cheap Flights to Oak Brook , IL from CA $185

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Oak Brook. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Oak Brook in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• 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 on board and will be confiscated.