Cheap Flights to Manchester from HK$4,340

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your getaway in Manchester. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended 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.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Manchester in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with a new cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.