Cheap Flights to Madrid from HK$279

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight an enjoyable experience. Follow our top tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and seeing the best of Madrid in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you've got all the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

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 closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Madrid in a flash. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.