Cheap Flights to Gerona from HK$272

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your holiday in Gerona. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Gerona quick and painless. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. 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 laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually 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 inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.