Cheap Flights to Bellingham from HK$5,358

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your getaway in Bellingham. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite shows are always good options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Bellingham, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in 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 in the cabin.