Cheap Flights to Makkah from HK$543

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Makkah. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.