Cheap Flights to Versailles from HK$1,488

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Versailles. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Versailles in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything 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 all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.