Cheap Flights to Mangalore from HK$397

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Mangalore could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mangalore in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with a new perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.