Cheap Flights to Badrinath from HK$379

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Badrinath could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you bring the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Badrinath, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, 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-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.