Cheap Flights to Amalfi from HK$397

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Amalfi holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you've got all the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Amalfi in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.