Cheap Flights to Porto Valtravaglia from HK$1,306

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Porto Valtravaglia could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organised before your flight will make your getaway to Porto Valtravaglia easy and painless. We've compiled some handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• 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 before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.