Cheap Flights to Stansted from HK$254

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Stansted holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a great experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Stansted in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your travel documents and ID close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.