Cheap Flights to Sèmè-Kpodji from HK$4,403

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your time in Sèmè-Kpodji. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Sèmè-Kpodji, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.