Cheap Flights to Athens from HK$541

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Athens could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Athens, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.