Cheap Flights to SIA from HK$8,012

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in SIA. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone and charger, your medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans 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:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to SIA a breeze. Read through our useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.