Cheap Flights to Essex from HK$1,275

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your holiday in Essex. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

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 liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Essex in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• 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 as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.