Cheap Flights to Sunderland from HK$248

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Sunderland holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Sunderland a pleasure. Read through our top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.