Cheap Flights to Surfside Beach from HK$540

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. Check out these essential travel tips that will get your Surfside Beach holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Surfside Beach, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.