Cheap Flights to New Amsterdam from HK$5,997

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your holiday in New Amsterdam. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget 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:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to New Amsterdam in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.