Cheap Flights to Madison from HK$1,080

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Madison escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Madison a breeze. Read through our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.