Cheap Flights to Charlotte from HK$540

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will get your Charlotte escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Charlotte in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything 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 all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take 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), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.