Cheap Flights to McLeod Ganj from HK$259

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these essential travel tips that will get your McLeod Ganj holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• 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 leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The trick is to be well organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to McLeod Ganj in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, 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 in no time.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• 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 on board.