Cheap Flights to Cookstown from HK$974

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

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cookstown in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.