Cheap Flights to Fort Pierre from HK$3,251

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a worry-free start to your getaway in Fort Pierre. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, 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. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Fort Pierre a pleasure. Here are some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.