Cheap Flights to Tacoma from HK$3,289

If you're not prepared, travelling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Tacoma. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from 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 answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Tacoma, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, 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 phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.