Cheap Flights to Stans from HK$402

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Stans. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Stans before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? 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 bring it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.