Cheap Flights to Cost from HK$1,681

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will get your Cost holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cost in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.