Cheap Flights to Lille from HK$4,220

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Lille could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from 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 prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Lille, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.