Cheap Flights to Columbia Falls from HK$1,969

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your Columbia Falls holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Columbia Falls, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.