Cheap Flights to Shiremoor from HK$686

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Shiremoor. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Shiremoor in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.