Cheap Flights to Saint Louis from HK$1,695

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will get your Saint Louis holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saint Louis in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. 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. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.