Cheap Flights to Louisville from HK$329

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will get your Louisville escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organised. We've put together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Louisville, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, 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. Personal belongings 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 phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.