Cheap Flights to Southern Cross from HK$1,450

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these essential travel tips that will help get your Southern Cross holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Southern Cross in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.