Cheap Flights to Ripon from HK$1,985

If you're not prepared, travelling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Ripon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure 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:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Ripon, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne or perfume? Not a 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, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.