Cheap Flights to Continental from HK$1,014

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Continental could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Continental in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort 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 the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.