Cheap Flights to Austin from HK$6,827

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organised. Check out these handy tips that will get your Austin escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare change of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Austin in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.