Cheap Flights to Metro from HK$250

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy tips that will help get your Metro escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and take a sweater as the temperature can drop in the cabin during long-haul flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To avoid this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Metro before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.