Cheap Flights to Manhattan from HK$1,424

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will get your Manhattan holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Manhattan, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.