Cheap Flights to Providence from HK$1,518

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your time in Providence. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you've got all the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any daily medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Providence in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.