Cheap Flights to Amsterdam from HK$287

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Amsterdam holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Amsterdam in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.