Cheap Flights to Sant Tomas from HK$1,583

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be hightailing it through airport security and having a ball in Sant Tomas before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you take the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sant Tomas in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.