Cheap Flights to Bologna from HK$172

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and having a blast in Bologna in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Bologna in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with a new perfume? 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 allowed to bring it with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.