Cheap Flights to Santo Tomas from HK$283

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a worry-free start to your getaway in Santo Tomas. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organised before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Santo Tomas a piece of cake. Here are some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the 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.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.