Cheap Flights to Tirano from HK$144

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Tirano. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The secret is to be organised before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Tirano before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.