Cheap Flights to Gu Lou from HK$1,235

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Gu Lou could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Gu Lou, here you come:

• Have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.