Cheap Flights to América

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and seeing the best of América before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you pack the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to América easy and painless. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.