Cheap Flights to Shepherds Flat from HK$397

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organised. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Shepherds Flat escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's all about being organised. We've put together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Shepherds Flat, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.