Cheap Flights to North Shields from HK$242

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organised. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your North Shields escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to North Shields in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.