Cheap Flights to Male from HK$1,839

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Male. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some great options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Male in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume? Not a problem. 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 in your carry-on bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.