Cheap Flights to Isle of Palms from HK$1,275

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Isle of Palms could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favourite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Isle of Palms in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy 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 coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• 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.
• Travelling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.