Cheap Flights to Queenscliff from HK$397

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Queenscliff escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've put together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Queenscliff, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.