Cheap Flights to West Point from HK$7,399

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy tips that will help get your West Point vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your highest priority when picking what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are quite common. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are your best bet.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance flying is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help lower your risk.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to West Point easy and painless. Below you'll find some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.