Cheap Flights to Van Don from HK$1,421

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Van Don could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favourite movies are good options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Van Don a piece of cake. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Travelling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off 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 luggage.