Cheap Flights to Da Lat from HK$436

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of top travel tips that will get your Da Lat holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Da Lat in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.