Cheap Flights to Matera from HK$374

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Matera. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, make room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Watch out Matera, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.