Cheap Flights to London

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy hints that will get your London escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out London, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.