Cheap Flights to Austin from HK$540

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Austin holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Austin a breeze. Read through our useful tips for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, 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), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.