Cheap Flights to Qilian County from HK$1,497

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Qilian County. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting 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 secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Qilian County in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.