Cheap Flights to Colombo from HK$347

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and enjoying Colombo in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight will make your getaway to Colombo a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.