Cheap Flights to Alta from HK$1,298

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Alta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Alta, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite perfume? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.