Cheap Flights to Waterloo from HK$4,214

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these top travel tips that will get your Waterloo holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Waterloo in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.