Cheap Flights to Banff from HK$184

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Check out these handy travel tips that will get your Banff vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of your plane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and don't forget to bring a cardigan as it tends to get cool inside the cabin during longer flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a sensible choice.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help lower your risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Banff easy and painless. Read through our handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.