Cheap Flights to Genoa from HK$1,270

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Genoa could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take 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 pocket knife) hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Genoa before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.