Cheap Flights to Manchester from HK$3,089

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Manchester. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Manchester a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Travelling with a new 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-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.