Cheap Flights to Sabah from HK$1,215

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Sabah holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot 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 secret is to be well organised before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sabah in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.