Cheap Flights to Mount Rainier from HK$1,147

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Mount Rainier holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mount Rainier in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.