Cheap Flights to Mine from HK$497

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Mine escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Mine easy and painless. Below are some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.