Cheap Flights to Kumarakom from HK$468

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Kumarakom holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Kumarakom before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.