Cheap Flights to Albania from HK$588

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organised. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your Albania holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Albania in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.