Cheap Flights to Sydney from HK$397

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Sydney could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've put together some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight will make your trip to Sydney easy and painless. Read through our handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes 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 your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.