Cheap Flights to Long Beach

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through airport security and having a ball in Long Beach in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Long Beach in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.