Cheap Flights to Santa Maria Maddalena from HK$1,018

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Santa Maria Maddalena. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Santa Maria Maddalena, here you come:

• Keep your ID and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.