Cheap Flights to Van Alstyne from HK$1,007

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Van Alstyne. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Van Alstyne in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.