Cheap Flights to Val-Thorens from HK$457

If you're not prepared, travelling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your time in Val-Thorens. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Val-Thorens in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.