Cheap Flights to Colindale from HK$9,224

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will get your Colindale holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Colindale, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.