Cheap Flights to Bagdad from HK$20,561

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy tips that will get your Bagdad holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Bagdad before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.