Cheap Flights to West Point from HK$1,312

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in West Point. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Next, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

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 the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to West Point in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.