Cheap Flights to Tam Dao from HK$439

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these essential travel tips that will help get your Tam Dao escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Tam Dao, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.