Cheap Flights to Freetown from HK$1,251

If you're poorly prepared, travelling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Freetown. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Freetown easy and painless. Read through our useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger 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 several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.