Cheap Flights to Melbourne from HK$1,261

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Melbourne holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Melbourne a breeze. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.