Cheap Flights to Downieville from HK$1,372

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your holiday in Downieville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Downieville, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• 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 easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually 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 in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.