Cheap Flights to Lao Cai from HK$443

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be speeding through the airport and seeing the best of Lao Cai in no time flat.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight often lies in your clothing choices. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises while seated helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Lao Cai quick and painless. Check out our handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.