Cheap Flights to Charlotte from HK$2,036

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your time in Charlotte. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, 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 clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Charlotte, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.