Cheap Flights to Dir from HK$396

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Dir escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Dir quick and painless. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring 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-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.