Cheap Flights to Dendermonde from HK$1,154

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Dendermonde. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.