Cheap Flights to Phoenix from HK$1,007

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Phoenix. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and wear easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some 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.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Phoenix before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock 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 clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.