Cheap Flights to Ouagadougou from HK$5,857

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these top travel tips that will help get your Ouagadougou escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Ouagadougou, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.