Cheap Flights to Sterling from HK$3,172

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your holiday in Sterling. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Sterling quick and painless. Below you'll find some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.