Cheap Flights to Purmerend from HK$379

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Purmerend could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful tips 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 comfortable experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organised before your flight will help make your getaway to Purmerend a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.