Cheap Flights to Oudenaarde from HK$1,085

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will help get your Oudenaarde escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Oudenaarde before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.