Cheap Flights to Nouakchott from HK$2,549

If you're not prepared, travelling can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Nouakchott. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Nouakchott a piece of cake. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume or cologne? No problem. 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 allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.