Cheap Flights to Makkah from HK$490

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and enjoying Mecca in no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and remember to pack a jacket in case it gets cool in the cabin. Pick flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the high heels and hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises while seated helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks or tights can also help.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mecca in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.