Cheap Flights to Luanda from HK$3,509

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your time in Luanda. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Luanda in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in 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.