Cheap Flights to Baltimore from HK$1,017

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these top travel tips that will get your Baltimore escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and pick flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Baltimore quick and painless. Check out our useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item 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.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.