Cheap Flights to West Point from HK$8,404

If you're not prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a worry-free start to your time in West Point. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to West Point easy and painless. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Have your passport and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.