Cheap Flights to Florence from HK$1,293

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Florence.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cool. Pick a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your main luggage.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

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

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.