Cheap Flights to Rochester from HK$9,560

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your holiday in Rochester. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean pair of socks and a good read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended 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 promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Rochester, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.