Cheap Flights to Southwest from HK$3,217

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your holiday in Southwest. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Southwest, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.