Cheap Flights to Childress from HK$3,049

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Childress. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Childress, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. 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 easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.