Cheap Flights to Dien Bien Phu from HK$2,967

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Dien Bien Phu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

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 in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Dien Bien Phu, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.