Cheap Flights to Jefferson City from HK$1,953

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy tips that will help get your Jefferson City escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being organised. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Jefferson City, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, 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 need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.