Cheap Flights to Dorsten from HK$1,100

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Dorsten could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Dorsten in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.