Cheap Flights to Melbourne from HK$497

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Melbourne escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Melbourne 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 passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.