£59 Cheap Flights to Washington

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Washington could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Washington in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.