Cheap Flights to Fairfax

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Fairfax could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm 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 airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Fairfax a piece of cake. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.