Cheap Flights to Manhattan

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as stress-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be breezing through the airport and exploring Manhattan in no time flat.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and don't forget to bring a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during longer flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also recommended.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There's plenty you can do to mitigate your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks or tights, drink lots of water often and keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've compiled some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Manhattan, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3null4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.