Cheap Flights to Dakar from HK$1,149

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

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Dakar in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Travelling with a new perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.