Cheap Flights to Nouméa from HK$2,033

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

• Travelling on a plane can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any 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 explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be organised before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Nouméan in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.