Cheap Flights to Freetown from HK$4,553

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your holiday in Freetown. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organised before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Freetown a piece of cake. Below are some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often 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-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.