Cheap Flights to Val-des-Monts from HK$1,974

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well organised. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Val-des-Monts holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• 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 legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Val-des-Monts a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.