Cheap Flights to Merthyr Tydfil from HK$1,679

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and seeing the best of Merthyr Tydfil in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Merthyr Tydfil easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.