Cheap Flights to Mai Chau from HK$598

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Mai Chau escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to Mai Chau a pleasure. Below are some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and passport close by. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• 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.