Cheap Flights to Macroom from HK$1,173

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your holiday in Macroom. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and something to read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for 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. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to Macroom a breeze. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.