Cheap Flights to Hamden from HK$1,315

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Hamden. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hamden in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Travelling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.