Cheap Flights to Virginia from CA $71

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Virginia could be a breeze or it could go on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Virginia quick and painless. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.