Cheap Flights to Madinat ash Shamal from HK$1,173

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Madinat ash Shamal escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Madinat ash Shamal, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.