Cheap Flights to Springfield from HK$1,046

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Springfield could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Springfield in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.