Cheap Flights to Athens from HK$481

If you're not prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Athens. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

Being organised before your flight will help make your getaway to Athens a pleasure. Read through our useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item 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-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.