Cheap Flights to Albany from HK$6,359

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your holiday in Albany. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Albany a piece of cake. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Keep 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. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.