Cheap Flights to Saint-Jean-d'Illac from HK$289

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Saint-Jean-d'Illac escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saint-Jean-d'Illac before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.