Cheap Flights to Ghent from HK$495

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and having a ball in Ghent in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and pick closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ghent in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.