Cheap Flights to Winnetka from HK$1,179

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Winnetka could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Winnetka a piece of cake. Read through our useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. 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 scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.