Cheap Flights to Pilot Mountain , NC from CA $219

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Pilot Mountain. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Pilot Mountain a pleasure. Read through our useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your ID and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.