Cheap Flights to Amherst from HK$1,297

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight an enjoyable experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be breezing through the airport and having a ball in Amherst in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be easy if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Amherst, here you come:

• Have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.