Cheap Flights to Ames from HK$691

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Ames. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Ames, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and passport within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.