Cheap Flights to Bala from HK$5,256

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your holiday in Bala. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Bala, here you come:

• Have your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with a new perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.