Cheap Flights to Thindukkal from HK$1,717

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Thindukkal. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Thindukkal a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your boarding pass and ID handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.