Cheap Flights to Thunder Bay from HK$8,345

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Thunder Bay. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight can make your trip to Thunder Bay easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• 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 in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.