Cheap Flights to Murika

If you'd like to have some extra spending money on your Murika holiday, then listen up! As every experienced traveller will tell you, don't leave booking until the last minute. Prices are usually more expensive close to the departure date. Don't stop there, however. Do some research and see if there are a few airports at your destination. Fares often differ depending on which airport you fly into. Make sure you compare prices across air carriers too. And finally, don't forget that the early bird catches the worm. Familiarise yourself with airfare costs and be ready to reserve your seat as soon as you see an unbeatable bargain. The sweetest deals never last long.

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Murika. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Murika, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.