Cheap Flights to Hoofddorp from HK$344

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Hoofddorp could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hoofddorp in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with a new perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.