Cheap Flights to Holladay from HK$542

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Holladay holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Holladay in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, 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-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers 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 in the cabin.