Cheap Flights to Arlington from HK$1,458

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will get your Arlington escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Arlington a breeze. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Keep your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.