Cheap Flights to Porthmadog from HK$5,292

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Porthmadog escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Porthmadog a piece of cake. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.