Cheap Flights to Gulf Shore from HK$319

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Gulf Shore. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

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 Gulf Shore in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.