Cheap Flights to McAlester from HK$1,273

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to McAlester could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a great experience if you've got all the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to McAlester before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need 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 shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.