Cheap Flights to Baltimore from HK$552

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Baltimore. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned 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:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

The secret is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Baltimore in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Travelling with a new perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.