Cheap Flights to Jacksonville , FL from CA $248

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Jacksonville could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you've got all the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Jacksonville, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.