Cheap Flights to Mala from HK$594

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Mala holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mala in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.