Cheap Flights to Mainhardt from HK$283

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Mainhardt escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mainhardt in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be 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 clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.