Cheap Flights to National Harbor from HK$585

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your holiday in National Harbour. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've compiled some top tips for an easy trip through security. Look out National Harbour, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.