Flights to Bedford, Virginia from

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy tips that will help get your Bedford escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Bedford a piece of cake. Below you'll find some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.