Cheap Flights to Houston from HK$2,647

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

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Houston a pleasure. We've rounded up some useful tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.