Cheap Flights to Paris from HK$541

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Paris could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy hints 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 great flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Paris, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.