Cheap Flights to Arlington , VA from CA $186

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Arlington could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, 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 reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Arlington in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.