Cheap Flights to Madras from HK$1,974

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Madras could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Madras, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.