Cheap Flights to Lake Placid from HK$1,097

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and discovering Lake Placid in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Lake Placid, here you come:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.