Cheap Flights to Washington from HK$1,254

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Washington. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

Being organised before your flight will make your getaway to Washington quick and painless. Check out our top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. 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 as it gets closer to your turn.
• 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 soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.