Cheap Flights to Merang from HK$173

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Merang could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. Below are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Merang in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.