Cheap Flights to Serrekunda from HK$2,205

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your holiday in Serrekunda. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've put together some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Serrekunda, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.