Cheap Flights to Cos Cob from HK$1,196

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organised. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Cos Cob holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cos Cob in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.