Cheap Flights to Boulder from HK$573

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Boulder escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Boulder in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.