Cheap Flights to Lord Howe Island from HK$3,157

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Lord Howe Island could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Lord Howe Island a pleasure. We've compiled some useful tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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 sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.