Cheap Flights to Canton from HK$1,943

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be breezing through the airport and enjoying Canton in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Canton in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.