Cheap Flights to Ballintoy from HK$4,259

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your Ballintoy holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ballintoy before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids 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 quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.