Cheap Flights to Valentines from HK$497

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Valentines could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Layer up in natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to pack a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Go for a pair of roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your luggage.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights is also recommended.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Valentines before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.