Cheap Flights to Shimizu from HK$481

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Shimizu escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies 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, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Shimizu quick and painless. We've rounded up some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.