Flights to Shek O, Hong Kong Island from NT$3,845

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Shek O could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've put 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 comfortable experience if you've got all the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Shek O, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.