Cheap Flights to Independence from HK$1,531

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Independence could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organised before your flight will help make your trip to Independence quick and painless. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.