Cheap Flights to La Virginia from HK$8,351

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organised. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will get your La Virginia holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to La Virginia in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.