Cheap Flights to Ascot from HK$397

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your time in Ascot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Ascot easy and painless. We've rounded up some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.