Cheap Flights to Canton from HK$1,017

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Canton could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've put together some handy tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Canton a pleasure. Read through our handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.