Cheap Flights to Columbus from HK$8,778

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy travel tips that will help get your Columbus holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Columbus in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.