Cheap Flights to Oakland Gardens from HK$1,148

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your holiday in Oakland Gardens. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've rounded up some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Oakland Gardens, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the 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 electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.