Cheap Flights to Monarch from HK$2,771

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips that will help get your Monarch holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger 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 layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Monarch, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.