Cheap Flights to Gulmarg from HK$417

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Gulmarg escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Gulmarg, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• 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're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.