Cheap Flights to Manali from HK$261

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy hints that will help get your Manali escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• The serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks also helps reduce the risk.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Manali in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need 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 in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.