Cheap Flights to Long Island from HK$2,939

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Long Island. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some great options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Long Island, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.