Cheap Flights to New Castle from HK$4,803

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your time in New Castle. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to New Castle before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.