Cheap Flights to Athens from HK$1,243

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy travel tips that will get your Athens escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before your flight can make your getaway to Athens a breeze. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand 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 inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.