Cheap Flights to Houghton le Spring from HK$3,465

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Houghton le Spring escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Houghton le Spring in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.