Cheap Flights to Simla from HK$679

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Simla holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Simla in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.