Cheap Flights to Maryland from HK$8,515

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

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

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 one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Maryland in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo 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), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.