Cheap Flights to Florence from HK$340

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Florence could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favourite shows are always good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose 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.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Florence, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.