Cheap Flights to Timor from HK$1,182

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Timor could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Travelling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, make room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget 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 or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Timor in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.