Cheap Flights to Mercer Island from HK$585

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Take a peek at these handy tips that will help get your Mercer Island escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Mercer Island a piece of cake. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.