Cheap Flights to La Belgica from HK$1,298

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in La Belgica.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm 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 guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer up in natural-fiber clothing and pack a jacket in case you get cold. Always opt for flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your main luggage.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, walk around the cabin as often as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to La Belgica quick and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• 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 luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.