Cheap Flights to Karatu from HK$5,527

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Karatu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being organised. We've pulled together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Karatu, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.