Cheap Flights to Hicksville , NY from CA $184

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Hicksville could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hicksville before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.