Cheap Flights to Carleton from HK$389

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Carleton holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, 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 noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Carleton before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.