Cheap Flights to Virginia

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Virginia could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've put together some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans 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:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Virginia, here you come:

• Keep your passport and travel documents within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.