Cheap Flights to Nelson from HK$5,358

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Nelson. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.