Cheap Flights to Birmingham from HK$540

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Birmingham. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Birmingham a piece of cake. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.