Cheap Flights to Pitou from HK$585

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Pitou holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Pitou in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.