Cheap Flights to Stehekin from HK$542

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Stehekin escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you've got all the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

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 nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, 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 in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Stehekin a breeze. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.