Cheap Flights to Niamey from HK$7,018

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organised. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Niamey escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Niamey in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage 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 jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.