Cheap Flights to Fredericksburg , VA from CA $186

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Fredericksburg. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Fredericksburg in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.