Cheap Flights to Bujumbura from HK$1,969

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these top travel tips that will get your Bujumbura holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are good options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Bujumbura in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.