Cheap Flights to Charlotte from HK$2,319

If you're not prepared, travelling can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your time in Charlotte. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

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

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.