Cheap Flights to Smyrna from HK$4,187

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Smyrna escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favourite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Smyrna in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.