Cheap Flights to Katapola from HK$296

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Katapola could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

The trick is to be organised before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Katapola in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.