Cheap Flights to Saint-Omer from HK$5,028

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your time in Saint-Omer. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saint-Omer in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.