Cheap Flights to Willimantic from HK$2,598

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Willimantic. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Willimantic in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.