Cheap Flights to Newcastle from HK$3,973

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Newcastle could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set 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. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Newcastle in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.