Cheap Flights to Columbus from HK$1,286

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Columbus could be a breeze or it could go on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Columbus in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.