Cheap Flights to Merlin from HK$1,168

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy tips that will help get your Merlin holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Merlin, here you come:

• Keep your ID and travel documents easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.