Cheap Flights to Virginia from HK$474

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Virginia could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are always good options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Virginia quick and painless. Below are some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, 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. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.