Cheap Flights to Ellicott City from HK$1,480

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Ellicott City could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Ellicott City, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray 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-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.