Cheap Flights to Washington

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Washington could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some useful tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Washington, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.