Cheap Flights to Mendota Heights from HK$1,081

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Mendota Heights could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

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 nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Mendota Heights a piece of cake. Read through our useful tips for a swift journey through security:

• Have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Travelling with your favourite perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.