S$101 Cheap Flights to Congress

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey as stress-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and enjoying Congress in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also restricted.

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 pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Congress in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers 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 in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.