Cheap Flights to Portmarnock from HK$553

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Portmarnock could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. Here are some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Portmarnock in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.